Winter prep tips: Staying safe and warm ahead of extreme weather
JACKSON, Tenn. — Many West Tennesseans are excited for the incoming snowy season, but are you really prepared for the freezing cold temperatures?
A winter storm is quickly approaching and you do not want to get caught unprepared. With expected freezing temperatures, it’s important to stay warm and safe.
Hardin County EMA Director Larae Sliger has tips on how to prep in advance.
“If you have to get out, make sure to have a blanket, have a flashlight, have some water in your vehicle, just to be safe,” said Sliger.
With the storms of this magnitude, there is a possibility that your electricity will go out. And as many of you know if your heat goes out, this storm could get uncomfortable very quickly.
“If you’re electricity goes out, your milk is going to go bad because your refrigerator may get warm, so get some non-perishables. Get some pup pop cans,” said Sliger.
Also, consider having alternative heat sources nearby but be sure to practice caution. Winter is peak season for home fires.
“People have a tendency to get up close and close to their heaters with a blanket, that’s when we see our house fires and things along those lines,” said Sliger.
And don’t forget to prep your home. To avoid a costly fix, make sure to drip your faucets when temperatures go below freezing.
“And it doesn’t have to be a solid stream just keep it dripping, so it keeps some water moving through the pipe. If it’s moving, then it has a less chance of freezing,” said Sliger.
That’s not all you can do. Sliger says try getting the heat to circulate.
“Uderneath your kitchen cabinets, underneath your bathroom vanity, flip the door open that way some of the ambient heat from the room gets underneath those cabinets,” said Sliger.
Don’t forget to check on your neighbors, family, and friends and also protect your pets.
Sliger says it’s important that you have working smoke alarms. If you are unsure or do not have any, contact your local fire department for assistance.
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