Baby, It is COLD Outside! How Do I protect my HOME?

Protecting your home in freezing temperatures is crucial to prevent damage and ensure the safety and comfort of your household. Here are some tips:

1. Insulate Pipes:

   • Insulate exposed pipes, especially in unheated areas such as basements, crawl spaces, and attics.
   • Use pipe insulation or wrap pipes with towels or other insulating materials.

2. Keep Faucets Dripping:

   • Allow faucets to drip slightly to relieve pressure in the pipes and prevent them from freezing.

3. Seal Drafts:

   • Seal gaps and drafts around windows and doors to prevent cold air from entering your home.
   • Use weather stripping or caulk to seal any cracks or openings.

4. Maintain Heating Systems:

   • Have your heating system inspected and serviced regularly to ensure it functions efficiently.
   • Replace filters in your furnace and clean vents to improve airflow.

5. Protect Outdoor Faucets:

   • Disconnect and drain outdoor hoses.
   • Install insulated faucet covers on outdoor spigots.

6. Winterize Outdoor Equipment:

   • Store outdoor furniture and equipment in a sheltered area or cover them to protect against winter weather.

7. Keep the Thermostat Consistent:

   • Maintain a consistent temperature in your home, even when you're away, to prevent drastic temperature drops.

8. Open Cabinet Doors:

   • Leave cabinet doors under sinks open to allow warm air to circulate around pipes.

9. Use Space Heaters Safely:

   • If using space heaters, follow safety guidelines and keep them away from flammable materials.

10. Insulate Attic and Walls:

    • Ensure that your attic and walls are adequately insulated to retain heat in your home.

11. Emergency Kit:

    • Prepare an emergency kit with essentials such as flashlights, batteries, blankets, and non-perishable food in case of power outages.

12. Roof Maintenance:

    • Remove snow from your roof to prevent ice dams, which can lead to water damage.

13. Monitor Your Home:

    • Regularly check for signs of issues, such as leaks or drafts, and address them promptly.

14. Know Shut-off Locations:

    • Know the location of the main water shut-off valve and how to turn off water to your home in case of a pipe burst.

By taking these precautions, you can help protect your home from the harsh effects of freezing temperatures.