Winter weather can cause extra strain and stress if you are not fully ready. Heavy snowfall and ice can cause serious damage to your property, such as ice dams, roof caving, and extensive water damage.

Taking precautions during warmer and dryer months can help you save time and money by preventing damage in the winter, not to mention the hassle of dealing with the damage. Below are some winter storm safety tips to follow to ensure your property is secure this winter.

Prepare a kit full of supplies in case of a disaster

Winter Storm Safety Tips

Before the Storm

• Keep an abundance of dry goods in your home in case of an emergency. If the power goes out, you will need to make sure you have the proper food to survive until the power is restored.
• Many people prepare with backup generators.  You can rent these at a local hardware store or purchase one in case of an emergency.  If you want to save some money, see if a neighbor would like to share one.  A generator should only be used for the most important things like warm water and heat.
• Have a disaster plan. Prepare a kit full of supplies, including canned food and a can opener, bottled water, a battery-operated radio, warm clothing, blankets, flashlight, and of course, a first-aid kit.
• Be aware of changing weather. For those living in the Midwest, temperatures are constantly fluctuating, sometimes up to 20 degrees in a few hours! Stay updated with all the weather updates and prepare accordingly for winter snowfall.

Before and After the Storm

• During wetter months, check to make sure your roof is in good condition. This is obvious with rainfall throughout the spring and summer. If your roof has leaks or rotted beams, this could cause serious problems once snow and ice arrive. Large amounts of snowfall can add hundreds of pounds to your rooftop. If your beams are old and/or weak, this can lead to larger problems. Leaks from melting snow can also cause mold in the attic and drywall. If not treated in time, the issue can lead to black mold and health problems for you and your family; it is easier and cheaper to maintain your roof versus having to purchase a new one unexpectedly.
• Make sure to maintain your furnace. The lack of use during warmer months can be a disadvantage. Regular maintenance can ensure it runs properly throughout the winter months when you need it the most. If your furnace decides to break in low enough temperatures, this can lead to pipes breaking from frozen water, causing flooding and mold growth which is expensive to repair.

During the winter storm go outside only if it is absolutely needed

During the Storm

• If you must go outside during cold weather, make sure to bundle up! Keep heavy layers on over your ears and mouth since much of your body heat leaves through the head.
• Try to not overexert yourself. Exhaustion will lower your immune system which can cause sickness and flu. When the weather is extreme, you are going to need your health in case of emergency.
• Try to avoid traveling long distances in snow. If your car should break down, always have an emergency kitin your trunk. This will ensure you stay safe and warm until someone can assist you.
• Eat regularly. Food will provide your body with energy to maintain its own heat.
• Beware of signs of hypothermia and frostbite. Be sure to keep everyone warm and well-hydrated, especially if the power is shut off.
• Always carry a cell phone and charger. This is crucial especially if you must go out to drive.
• Keep the gas tank full. Some gas stations may close as a result of the winter storm. Temperatures below -20 degrees Fahrenheit will also freeze the gas line if the tank is near empty.
• Inform someone of where you’re going. Just in case your car gets stuck and you can’t make it back.
• Stay with your car if you get stuck. If your car is broken down or stuck, it’s best to stay inside your car to stay warm.

After the Storm

• Refrain from driving until the roads are plowed. You don’t want to face an accident or get stuck just after digging out.
• Check on neighbors to ensure they are safe. They may do the same for you.
• Heavy wet snow is always a strain, not only on your home but also on your back. For many homeowners who are fortunate enough to own a snow blower, this daunting chore is made a little easier. For those not so fortunate, shoveling snow can be difficult. Heavy snow can put severe strain on your back if you are not lifting correctly. Make sure to lift from your knees and not your lower back. Back braces are available at any hardware store and can be of great help.

Heavy snowfall and ice can cause serious damage to your property

Structural Damage from Winter Storms

While snowstorms don’t pose an immediate threat to homes and buildings, the amount of snow left on the roof can cause it to cave, depending on the amount of snow and the strength of the roof. Melting snow can also lead to roof leaks, water damage, and rotting wood. Ice dams can form within the gutter, creating beautiful icicles that threaten flooding to your foundation and put your personal safety at risk.

Last but not least, frozen pipes will occur with cold temperatures, adding extra pressure within the pipe as the water inside it freezes and expands. If it bursts, the surrounding area will quickly become flooded, requiring emergency restoration.

Water Damage Restoration

While snowstorms aren’t usually considered natural disasters, they can still cause disasters within the home, especially water and flood damage. As soon as you discover the disaster, don’t hesitate to contact a water damage restoration professional immediately.

Soon after receiving your first call, these experts will react immediately, arriving on-time with water extraction equipment and professional dehumidifiers and air movers to remove the remaining moisture within the spaces. They will also provide mold removal and structural repairs if needed.

Finally, they will work with your insurance adjuster so you can focus on other matters and look forward to a fully restored home.

About Vince Sandri

Vince Sandri is a content writer and blogger with more than 12 years of experience. His expertise is in creating content related to disaster restoration, including information about preventing and reacting to natural disasters like flooding, water damage, fire and smoke damage, mold growth, storm damage and more.
Vince has been the main contributor to RestorationMasterFinder.com since 2014. Over that time, he has written numerous service pages and blogs for disaster restoration providers featured on RestorationMasterFinder.com. Vince has done extensive research and covered a wide range of topics relating to disaster restoration to help homeowners, business owners, and property managers better protect their property. He understands the problems that disasters like flooding, fire, smoke, and mold can cause as well as the best ways to respond to these issues to limit the damage.
Vince completed his Bachelor of Arts degree at Aurora University and his master’s degree at DePaul University. He has been writing SEO website pages, blogs, and press releases since 2012. Vince is also a musician and can be seen playing in the Chicago, IL area.