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Preparing For The Winter
Thursday 5th October 2023
Direct Training (GB) Limited
Winter can be a dangerous season and one of the key ways that you can stay safe and healthy is by planning ahead and preparing your home and vehicles for the worst. You should prepare for power outages and potentially having to spend time outdoors in the elements.
Prepare your home
Staying inside during the winter months is no guarantee of safety. Here are a few steps however that you can use to keep your home warm and safe.
- Winterise your home - A great way to winterise your home is install insulation, storm windows and weather stripping (if possible). You can also insulate any water lines that run along exterior walls. It is also a good idea to clean out your gutters and repair any roof leaks. This is because if you are expecting snow, when that snow melts the water will need a place to drain off to.
- Check your heating system - Before the cold sets in it is a good idea to have your heating system professionally serviced to ensure that it is working properly, clean and ventilated to the outside.
- Fireplaces - Fireplaces are also a great way to stay warm without spending on heating. If you have a fireplace you should clean it and inspect it and your chimney.
- Alternate heating - it is good practice to have an emergency heating method available should the worst happen.
Prepare your vehicle
Whilst preparing your home it is equally as important to prepare your vehicle. Especially as the driving conditions may be hazardous and there is the risk of becoming stranded.
- Service your radiator and maintain your car's antifreeze level.
- Check your tire tread and if necessary replace your tires with all-weather or snow tires.
- Keep your fuel tank full. This will avoid ice forming in the tank and fuel lines.
- Prepare a winter emergency kit to keep in your car in case you become stranded.
- The kit should include:
- Cell phone, Portable charger, Extra batteries.
- Items to stay warm such as hats, coats, mittens, blankets or sleeping bags.
- Booster cables, flares, tire repair kit.
- First aid kit.
- Plastic bag. This can be used for sanitisation.
Prepare for Emergencies
In the winter months you should always prepare for weather-related emergencies and power outages.
- It is essential that you stock food but choose foods that don't require cooking or refrigeration. You should also store plenty of water in clear containers.
- You should ensure that your mobile phone is always fully charged.
- If you are planning on travelling you should be aware of the current forecast and conditions.
- If you are planning on using cooking methods such as barbecues you must ensure that they are kept out of the house and that you have a Carbon Monoxide alarm close by. If the alarm sounds you must leave the house immediately and call 911.