As almost the majority of the nation has been hit hard this winter, it is important to be prepared for the aftermath of a deep freeze. With many homeowners seeing record low temperatures in the last few days, many don't realize that the damage from these temperatures may not be apparent for days and weeks after the cold is gone. Here are a few simple items from NOAA that you should consider as temps start rising.
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- Call Your Neighbors: Check to see that your neighbors are okay after the storm, particularly seniors, disabled persons or others living alone. Carbon monoxide poisoning is one of the leading causes of death after storms, particularly when there are power outages. Cases of frostbite and hypothermia are also common for elderly people who were stuck in their homes.
- Check Your Pipes: Your pipes may be frozen. Water pipes on exterior walls and in places that are subject to cold, like in the basement, attic, and under kitchen cabinets, freeze most often. Water expands as it freezes, causing pipes to burst. If they are frozen, first turn on the faucet. Water will drip as you warm the pipes. Heat the pipes using a space heater, heating pad, electric hair dryer, or hot water on a cloth. Never use an open flame. Continue until water pressure returns to normal or call a plumber if you have more issues.
- Salt Your Walkways: Once it warms up enough to out, it's important to shovel the snow from your sidewalks and driveway or sprinkle salt if there is ice. If there is a thick layer of snow on the ground you cannot move, salt the area so that the snow melts. You should also put down salt if there is ice on your stairs leading into your house--less than a quarter-inch of ice can be dangerous!
- Refill Your Supplies: This storm may be over, but there might be another one soon. Every storm is different, so it is important to always be prepared. Be sure to take an inventory of your emergency supplies and restock any items that you have used during this most recent event. It is also a good time to check for any expired items as well.
As always we want to hear your stories about how well you weathered the snow, ice, and extreme cold temperatures. Leave your story below and two posts will be chosen at random to receive our oval TalkWeather sticker.
TalkWeather is proud to be a partner of NOAA as a Weather-Ready Nation Ambassador.
