WINTER STORMS AND POWER OUTAGES
Winter weather can mean beautiful snow-covered landscapes or ice-coated trees and power outages. It’s going to get cold, so do your best to be prepared and stay safe no matter what Mother Nature throws at us.
Prepare Your Home for Winter Weather
As the outside temperatures dip, get your home as weather-proof as possible. Caulk or weather strip windows and doors. Make sure your HVAC system is working properly. Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and have extra batteries on hand. Get your fireplace and chimney inspected and cleaned. Insulate water pipes, especially those near an outside wall. Drain outdoor hoses and shut off water off to outside spigots. It’s also a good idea to get your home’s security system inspected before a storm hits. Have a backup battery for the main panel in the event of a lengthy power outage.
Storm Prep
If a winter storm warning or watch has been issued for your area, ensure your family’s emergency supplies are in order in the event of a power outage. Have a gallon of water for each person in your household for at least three days. Don’t forget your pets and bring them indoors! Have a supply of non-perishable food and snacks on hand. Make sure anyone who needs medication has at least several days supply. Get out the warm clothes, hats and blankets. If you use a whole-house generator make sure it’s in proper working order and get it serviced if needed. Portable generators must be located outside in a dry location, away from windows and doors. Make sure your vehicle has a full tank of gas and your phones are fully charged. Install the PECO app on your phone, which will allow you to check on the status of a power outage.
If the Power Goes Out
A battery-operated radio is helpful to stay informed. Always use flashlights instead of candles, which are fire hazards. Unplug appliances except the refrigerator and sump pump.
Check on your family and neighbors. Stay off the roads if possible. And be smart about shoveling snow. Delco Alarm Systems can help you ensure that your home’s burglar and fire systems are
equipped for any potential winter storm. Contact the professionals at Delco Alarm Systems at 610-494-9100 to schedule a system checkup.