While winter and all that it brings can be a fun time for those who like to ski, board, or just play in the snow, those freezing temperatures also bring risks to your safety. Over 156,000 motor vehicle accidents occur due to icy roads every year, but driving isn’t the only concern. You can also visit for Chimney Sweep Cherokee County, GA.
It’s important to take extra care when it comes to your home to keep it, you, and your family safe by following these safety tips.
Prevent Frozen Pipes
Before temperatures dip below freezing, use pipe sleeves, foam, or heating cables to ensure your pipes stay warm enough. If the water freezes, it can cause the pipes to burst. Be sure to drain any water left in outdoor spigots too.
If You Use Propane Be Sure to Schedule Your Delivery In Time
If you use propane heating and have to arrange your own deliveries, it’s a must to schedule a propane delivery well before the cold of winter hits. You don’t want to find yourself out of propane when temperatures are freezing outside.
Get Your Chimney Inspected and Regularly Clean Your Fireplace
If you have a fireplace, schedule a certified chimney sweep to inspect and clean your chimney before it’s time to start using it again. It should be done at least once a year to check for any blockages like animal nests to ensure smoke can escape properly. To protect air quality, the venting system and fireplace should be inspected and cleaned regularly too. You can also visit for chimney repair indianapolis.
When your fireplace is frequently used, clean it out once a week. Always wear a dust mask, open a window to prevent negative air pressure, and close the damper first.
Remove Ice and Snow From the Driveway and Sidewalks
The most common accidents during the winter result from falls due to icy conditions. Be sure you have the right tools to keep your driveway and sidewalks free from ice and snow, such as shovels, scrapers, and a snowblower. After it snows immediately shovel or plow all trafficked areas. Wear protective clothing, including a warm hat and gloves to prevent frostbite, taking frequent breaks out of the cold.
Maintain Well-Lit Outdoor Paths
Short winter days mean more time spent in the dark. Be sure that you have plenty of lighting, including a well-lit path to your home. Check to ensure that fixtures are firmly secured and replace lightbulbs so that they’ll work through the season. You might want to install smart bulbs or motion sensor lights that can be controlled using your smartphone.
Be Extra Cautious with Space Heaters
A space heater can easily light objects on fire that are placed too close to it, particularly items made with cardboard, paper or fabrics. Space heaters can even be combustible. Never leave yours unattended or plug it into a generator. They should always be plugged directly into a wall.
Prepare for Power Outages and Snow-Ins
Power outages are common in many areas during the winter with frozen branches breaking and falling onto power lines among other potential issues. That means it’s important to have an alternative heat source such as an emergency kerosene space heater, plenty of blankets, and flashlights. If you get snowed in, you’ll want an emergency kit with enough food and water to last a few days, alon with any other important items like prescription medications.