Winter is Coming - Here's a List to Prepare

Don't wait until the last minute to start getting prepared. Save yourself the stress and plan in advance.

1. SNOW BLOWER:

• Get out, start up, and service if needed

• Have the correct fuel on standby

• Buy extra sheer pins

• If you don't have one and you plan on getting one, don't wait for a big snowstorm to buy!

2. GENERATOR:

• Get out, start up, and service if needed

• Have the correct fuel on standby

• Consider how you will hook up to the house. Make sure the power source is safe

• If you don’t have one and plan on buying one, don’t wait for the first power outage to buy!

3. YARD MARKER STAKES:

• Mark the entrance to your driveway

• Mark corners of walkways

• Mark curves and turns

• Mark objects such as hydrants and sprinkler spouts near driveway/road

• Use a reflective object that will show up at night or in a storm

• Be sure to have a supply of extras

4. CAR KIT:

• Scraper/Brush

• BACK UP gloves, jacket, and warming blanket

• Kitty litter or sand

• Old rug to lay down when stuck

• Flashlight and extra batteries

• Check windshield wiper fluid

5. POWER OUTAGE KIT:

• Flashlights

• Glow Sticks

• Lighter

• Large Jugs of water

• Portable Battery with USB plus-ins

• Extra Batteries

• Canned/Dry Food

• Can Opener

• First Aid Kit

• Cooler for refrigerator items to leave outside

• Secondary heat source

6. CLEAN UP YARD:

• Leaves before the snow

• Large sticks and objects you wouldn't want to go over with blower

• Cover any external faucets that can't be turned off

• Store summer furniture, grilling equipment, & gardening supplies

• Path to the oil/gas fill up location

• Mark where your septic tank is in case it needs to be accessed in the winter

7. ROOF CHECK:

• Check for leaks and damaged sections before the snow

• Put in heat wires where you had historical ice dams

• Find your roof rake

• Clean out your gutters

• Get your chimney cleaned and checked before burning

8. FIND YOUR HELPERS:

• Hire a Plow

• Have a plan—who will you band with in a storm?

9. CHECK IN WITH GAS/OIL COMPANY:

• Know the payments/delivery schedule

• Know the emergency service number and what the hours are

10. CHECK YOUR WINTER CLOTHES:

• Make sure you have the right sizes and matches for your whole family

• Acquire a few extra pieces for people who stop by and may be unprepared

Got any suggestions to add to our list? Are they some extra things you do to prepare your home? Please let us know!