A major winter storm is expected to impact the DC area starting late Saturday and continuing into Sunday, bringing the potential for heavy snow, ice, and extremely cold temperatures. With much of the country experiencing below-freezing conditions, now is a great time to take a few simple steps to protect your home, avoid damage, and keep your household safe.
At Pearlman Meekin & Co., we always want to help our clients take care of what’s likely their biggest investment. Here are practical, easy-to-follow tips to help you prepare:
Seal Out the Cold
- Seal drafts with caulking, weather stripping, or rolled towels at doors and windows.
- Close curtains and blinds at night to help keep heat inside.
- Stop all drafts wherever possible to prevent cold air from entering.
Keep Your Heat On
- Keep your thermostat set to 60 degrees or higher at all times, including overnight.
- Letting temperatures dip too low can increase the risk of frozen pipes and other issues.
- Close off unused rooms to help conserve heat in main living areas.
Prevent Frozen Pipes
- Let faucets drip slightly, especially those on exterior walls.
- Open kitchen and bathroom cabinet doors to allow warm air to circulate around plumbing.
- Close crawl space vents to prevent cold air from reaching pipes.
- Know where your main water shut-off valve is located in case a pipe does burst.
Prepare for Power Outages
- Power outages are possible. Make sure generators are fueled and ready if you have one.
- Consider having a portable generator if you rely on electricity for heat or medical needs.
- Never run generators or fuel-powered equipment indoors.
Stock Up on Essentials
- Have at least three days’ worth of water and food on hand.
- Make sure you have any necessary medications.
- Pick up rock salt or sand to help with icy walkways and entry points.
Charge and Prepare Devices
- Fully charge phones, laptops, and backup battery packs.
- Fill your car’s gas tank in case of emergencies.
- Have extra batteries available if needed.
Emergency Supplies
- Keep flashlights easily accessible.
- Have a battery-operated radio if possible.
- If you still have one, a landline can be helpful during extended outages.
Travel and Safety
- Stay home if you can and keep off the roads during the storm, especially when conditions are icy.
- Be cautious with snow removal. Shoveling heavy snow in cold temperatures can put serious strain on your heart due to increased blood pressure and restricted blood flow. Take breaks and don’t overexert yourself.
Winter storms are part of life in our area, but a little preparation can go a long way in preventing damage and keeping your home and family safe.
If you have questions about winter maintenance, protecting your home, or preparing your property for extreme cold, the team at Pearlman Meekin & Co. is always here as a resource.
Stay warm and stay safe this weekend.
