Besides your teddy bear, you’ll need emergency food and water. And a shovel.
Here’s how to keep your home safe and your bones warm.
Make Sure You Have Emergency Supplies
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) says to be sure you have these things:- Snow shovels – more than one because they can break, and four hands are better than two if you have them
- Deicers, preferably the pet-safe type
- Extra fuel such as firewood, a full propane tank, or a generator.
- Clean blankets, pillows, warm clothing, etc. because you might not be able to do laundry for awhile
- Food and water that doesn’t require refrigeration
- Transistor radio with new batteries — and backup batteries
- Check roof tiles, shutters, siding, and other exterior materials to ensure they’re secure
- Make sure gutters are clear
- Seal air leaks around the home to keep it warmer (and save energy costs)
- Insulate all exposed plumbing pipes to prevent burst pipes
- Trim tree branches away from your roof to prevent roof damage
What’s an ice dam? Ice dams occur when ice melts off the roof during the day and then re-freezes as it drips into a clogged gutter. This can force water back under the roofline and cause serious leaks, often thousands of dollars (!) in damage. While you’re insulating your pipes, remind yourself where all water shut-off valves are so you can turn off the water supply in case of any leaks.
Overgrown tree branches are a risk to your home, vehicles, and loved ones. But trimming and removal can be dangerous, too, so don’t attempt it on your own. Best to hire a pro.
Now you’re ready for a snow day!
has written about finance and real estate for over a decade. Her work has been in Entrepreneur, Newsweek, and The Residential Specialist. A Jersey Shore resident, she’s weathered hurricanes, Nor’easters, and one earthquake.
