We’re in for a cold weekend! With temps dropping into the teens at night and not getting above freezing during the day, keeping yourself, loved ones and your home warm is paramount. Follow the below tips for a pleasant (and claim-free) weekend.
Prevent Hypothermia:
Dress in Layers
- Wear multiple layers of clothing to trap warm air close to your body.
- Use moisture-wicking base layers to keep sweat away from your skin.
Stay Dry
- Wet clothing can significantly increase the risk of hypothermia. Ensure your outer layer is waterproof or water-resistant.
- Change into dry clothes if you get wet.
Protect Extremities
- Wear gloves, hats, and warm socks to protect your hands, head, and feet.
- These areas are prone to heat loss, so keeping them covered is crucial.
Stay Active
- Physical activity generates body heat. Keep moving to maintain warmth.
- Avoid long periods of inactivity in cold conditions.
Seek Shelter
- If you’re in a cold environment, find or create shelter to protect yourself from wind and precipitation.
Stay Hydrated and Well-Fed
- Dehydration and lack of food can make your body more susceptible to hypothermia. Stay nourished and hydrated.
Know the Signs
- Be aware of the symptoms of hypothermia, such as shivering, confusion, slurred speech, and fatigue. Seek medical help if you notice these signs.
Avoid Alcohol and Tobacco
- Alcohol can cause your body to lose heat more quickly, and tobacco can restrict blood flow. Avoid these substances in cold environments.
Stay Informed
- Be aware of weather conditions and plan accordingly. Check forecasts before heading out, and be prepared for changing conditions.
Space Heater Safety:
Placement: Place space heaters on a level, flat surface away from foot traffic. Keep them at least three feet away from flammable materials such as curtains, bedding, and furniture.
Ventilation: Ensure that the space heater has enough space around it to allow proper airflow, and never use it in enclosed spaces.
Power Source: Plug space heaters directly into a wall outlet, avoiding the use of extension cords or power strips. Overloading electrical circuits can lead to fire hazards.
Supervision: Never leave a space heater unattended. Turn it off when leaving the room or going to sleep.
Maintenance: Regularly inspect space heaters for any signs of damage or malfunction. Malfunctioning heaters should be repaired or replaced immediately.
Automatic Shut-off: Space heaters equipped with automatic shut-off features provide an extra layer of protection. These can prevent overheating and reduce the risk of fires.
Children and Pets: Keep children and pets away from space heaters. The exterior can become hot and pose a burn risk.
Read the Manual: Thoroughly read and understand the manufacturer’s instructions and safety guidelines provided in the user manual.
Emergency Preparedness: Install smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors. Regularly test these devices and replace batteries as needed.
Prevent Freezing Pipes:
Insulate Pipes – Insulate pipes in unheated areas such as basements, attics, and crawl spaces. This can help maintain a higher temperature around the pipes.
Keep Interior Temperature Consistent – Maintain a consistent temperature inside your home, especially during extremely cold weather. This helps prevent pipes from freezing.
Let Faucets Drip – Allow faucets to drip slightly. This keeps water flowing, making it less likely for pipes to freeze.
Open Cabinet Doors – Open cabinet doors under sinks to allow warm air to reach the pipes.
Disconnect Garden Hoses – Disconnect and drain garden hoses, and shut off outdoor water valves to prevent freezing.
Heat Tape or Cable – Use heat tape or cable on vulnerable pipes. Follow manufacturer instructions for installation.
Keep the Thermostat On – If you’re away, don’t turn off the heating system entirely. Keep the thermostat set to a temperature that prevents freezing.
If despite these precautions, your pipes still freeze, it’s crucial to thaw them carefully to avoid damage. Use a hairdryer, heating pad, or towels soaked in hot water to thaw the pipes gradually. Never use an open flame or high-temperature devices.
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