Many winter storms are accompanied by low temperatures and sometimes, strong winds, ice, sleet, and freezing rain. Severe winter weather has the potential to knock out heat, power, and communications services to your home or office, sometimes for days.
To highlight the importance of Maryland families and businesses being winter-ready, the Maryland Emergency Management Agency has published some helpful tips on how you can be prepared for and stay safe during winter weather.
Before:
- Make sure your home is well insulated and that you have weather stripping around your doors and windows to help keep warm air inside.
- Winterize your vehicle and keep your gas tank at least half full to avoid ice in the tank and fuel lines.
During:
- Avoid overexertion when shoveling snow. If you must shovel snow, stretch before going outside.
- Keep dry. Change wet clothing frequently to prevent a loss of body heat. Wet clothing loses all of its insulating value and transmits heat rapidly.
- Let someone know your destination, your route, and when you expect to arrive. If your car gets stuck along the way, help can be sent along your predetermined route.
After:
- Protect yourself from frostbite and hypothermia by wearing warm, loose-fitting, lightweight clothing in several layers. Stay indoors, if possible.
From all of us here at Shipley Plumbing, Heating and Cooling, please get prepared and stay safe as the weather arrives in Maryland. For more information on how to get ready for winter weather, please visit mema.maryland.gov.