While the winter weather offers a nice respite from the warmer months, the drastic change in temperature can wreak havoc on both your home and your family. Here are eight ways to keep your home and family safe:
1. Prepare
Because the winter months can bring inclement weather, it is wise to be prepared for any winter emergency. Many homes have lost power for days at a time due to snowstorms while others have experienced frozen pipes and other home challenges due to freezing temperatures. One of the best ways to keep your family safe throughout the winter is to prepare in advance for the worst-case scenario by stocking up on blankets, extra batteries, flashlights, wood for fires, water, and non-perishable food.
Likewise, it never hurts to be prepared for weather-related canceled plans. Instead of going out, replace your plans with indoor family fun with Direct TV Packages or playing a game.
2. Heating System
A faulty heating system is one of the main causes of winter fires. Regardless of how little or often you use your furnace heating system furnaces do require routine maintenance. In fact, home inspectors and firefighters alike suggest annual checkups. Whether you heat with natural gas, oil, propane, or wood, your furnace, stove, chimney, and duct system should be thoroughly inspected.
3. Candles
Next to a faulty heating system, candles are the number one source of house fires during the winter season. Because of their warmth and familial feeling, candles are often lit in excess during the wintertime. However, an open flame should never be unattended. Additionally, candles should be placed in areas out of the reach of children, away from flammable materials, and the wicks need to be cut down.
4. Ice
Whether it’s ice on the road, your driveway, or your entryway steps, ice is a dangerous hazard and a leading cause of serious injury. Spread bags of salt or sand over the icy areas around the outside of your house to avoid slipping and possibly seriously injuring yourself or your family and friends.
5. Snow Shoveling
If you have not shoveled snow in a while, or have pre-existing health conditions, be careful when shoveling snow. The physical exertion it takes to shovel snow in the extreme cold can lead to a risk of a heart attack. Statistically, heart attacks happen more frequently in the morning, which is when most people are shoveling out of necessity.
6. Snow Blowers
Similarly to shoveling snow, using a snow blower can also lead to health problems such as a risk of heart attack as well as serious hand injuries. If you lead a more sedentary lifestyle, be careful about this activity, as it can be extremely strenuous on your health.
7. Sickness
One of the most important ways you can keep your family safe this winter is by protecting their immune system. Make sure children are bundled up for the cool air, wash their hands, and eat as much vitamin C as possible.
Taking these safety precautions will allow you to have a safe winter season.