Just a reminder,
Dangerously cold air will move into central Indiana and a large part of the U.S this weekend. Temperatures will get cold enough for frostbite to occur within 10 to 30 minutes of exposure.
A primary concern is that winter storms can knock out heat, power, and communications services to your home or office, sometimes for days at a time. Heavy snowfall and extreme cold can immobilize an entire region.
To prepare for a winter storm, you should do the following:
- Listen to a NOAA Weather Radio or other local news channels for critical information from the National Weather Service (NWS). Be alert to changing weather conditions.
- Bring pets/companion animals inside during winter weather. Move other animals or livestock to sheltered areas with non-frozen drinking water.
- Ensure all areas with water pipes are adequately heated or turn off water and drain pipes. Open cabinet doors anywhere pipes are on an outside wall.
- Insulate pipes with insulation or newspapers and plastic and allow faucets to drip a little during cold weather to avoid freezing. Running water, even at a trickle, helps prevent pipes from freezing.
- Learn how to shut off water valves (in case of a pipe burst).
During Winter Storms and Extreme Cold
- Drive only if it is necessary. If you must drive, travel in the day; don't travel alone; keep others informed of your schedule; stay on main roads, and avoid back road shortcuts.
- If the pipes freeze, remove any newspapers' insulation or layers and wrap the pipes in rags. Completely open all faucets and pour hot water over the pipes, starting where they were most exposed to the cold (or where the cold was most likely to penetrate).
- If you will be going away during cold weather, leave the heat on in your home, set to a temperature no lower than 55?ø F.
In addition to insuring your home, we're committed to helping you and your loved ones stay safe when disaster strikes. If you would like more information on developing a family emergency plan or building a disaster supply kit, please contact us.
