Plan Now to Have a Safer Winter
October 25, 2022
It’s all about pumpkin spice and jack-o’-lanterns at the moment — but in many places around the country, that chill in the evening air reminds us that winter is just around the corner. And while we hear a lot about heat safety during the summer months, it’s important to remember that freezing winter temperatures and icy and snowy conditions carry their own risks.
If you live and work in a cold-climate area of the U.S. — or if you plan to visit — take a few minutes now to plan ahead before winter arrives in full force. Here are four areas to consider:
Your home. Use one of these last warm weekends to winterize your home, inside and out. Clean your heating systems, including fireplaces, and check for damage that may have occurred over the summer. Make sure your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are working. Stock non-perishable food and bottled water.
Your vehicle. Check and replace your antifreeze, if needed. Same with your tires (or install snow tires). Switch your windshield washer fluid to a winter mix. Put together a vehicle emergency kit and keep it in your vehicle at all times.
Outdoors. Make sure you have a supply of snow melt, cat litter or sand to treat your walkways and driveway after an ice storm. Locate shovels, scrapers, brushes and other winter tools. Bring out your winter coats, boots, gloves, hats and other clothing. Check to make sure they’re clean and in good condition — and that they still fit your growing family.
Travel. If you’re driving in or to an area that can get dangerous winter weather, don’t leave without checking the forecast for that area and the places you’ll be driving through. Let someone else know where you’re going and your planned route. Learn how to stay safe in a stranded vehicle in winter weather.
For more information about winter safety and health, read this article from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Taking time now to prepare can make a big difference if you find yourself in the middle of a winter storm. At CoolSys, our top priority is your safety, whether you’re at work or at home. So please take precautions — and be safe this winter!