Winter Home Prep

• December 18th, 2017
• Posted in Winter Home Safety

Now that Winter is barreling down on us, the moving and storage experts at Noah’s Ark wanted to provide our loyal community and customers with a guide to home Winterization, so you can be fully prepared for this cold Winter and keep your brand new home safe and comfortable.

Home Heating

This is incredibly important – make sure that your home has enough heat and that your HVAC operation is working safely in order to ensure the comfort and safety of your entire household. Remember:

• Your HVAC system and furnace need to be checked slightly before it starts to get even colder.
• Make sure that your CO and smoke detectors have fresh batteries and are working properly.
• Never leave space heaters unattended.
• Make sure your chimney is clean and free of all obstructions.
• Make sure a fire extinguisher is easily accessible.
• Have spare blankets and warm clothing on hand for emergencies or colder nights.

Windows and Doors

Make sure to insulate your windows and doors to consolidate both your heat and your energy bills.

• Check weather stripping in door frames and window frames for heat loss.
• Seal damage or gaps in door or window frames.
• Fix all drafts or leaks that air can come through.
• Add additional insulation when needed.
• A quick option is plastic being placed over a window until you can find a more elegant and permanent solution.

Preparedness Kits

Make sure to have kits on hand for emergencies, storms, or HVAC issues. These kits should contain:

• Flashlights, matches, and candles.
• Bottled water and non-perishable food to eat.
• First aid kits.
• Emergency Radios.
• Blankets / Pillows
• Snow shovels
• Snowblowers

Cars

If you’re planning on car travel during the winter make sure that you have everything you might need in the event of an automotive breakdown. Always keep the following inside your vehicle during the winter:

• Snow brushes and ice scrapers.
• First aid kits
• Bottled water and non-perishable food to eat
• Blankets
• Gloves and hats
• Road flares
• Jumper cables
• A working tool kit
• Waterproof matches and a flashlight
• Road salt
• Rope and/or chains for towing.