LANSING, Mich. – With temperatures taking a nosedive, winter is beginning to make its presence known — and felt down to the bone.
The Michigan State Police, along with Emergency Management and Homeland Security Division, is taking part in the state’s first Winter Hazards Awareness Week, as proclaimed by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, with a list of cold weather preparedness tip list.
“Winter is on its way and with cold weather comes health and safety concerns with cold temperatures, freezing pipes, potential propane shortages and power outages,” said Emmitt McGowan, deputy state director and commander of MSP/EMHSD. “Michiganders should take extra steps now to be better prepared for the winter months.”
As recommended by officials, here are some ways to prepare your home for winter:
- Weatherproof your home by installing weather stripping and caulking and insulating walls, doors and windows.
- Insulate any water lines that run along exterior walls, so pipes are less likely to freeze.
- Lock in a propane rate now and have a backup heating plan, such as a generator, wood stove or fireplace.
- Have gas or oil furnaces inspected by a qualified professional and change the air filter every two to four months.
- Have your fireplace and chimney cleaned and inspected. Contact your local fire department for a referral or look for a local inspector online.
- Install battery operated carbon monoxide detectors near sleeping areas. Carbon monoxide poisoning is more common in the winter months when furnaces are turned on and portable generators are often used for electricity during power outages.
- Clean gutters to prevent ice dams from forming. Roof ice dams can cause water to build up, leading to interior damage.
- Clear storm drains along the curb to enable water to drain. If plugged, water has the potential to go into low-lying areas and flood basements.
- Have an emergency preparedness kit stored safely in your house that includes water, nonperishable food, a first aid kit, extra batteries, a battery or hand-crank powered radio, emergency lighting or flashlights, extra blankets and warm clothing.
To better prepare your vehicle for colder temperatures:
- Have your radiator system serviced, replace windshield wipers and refill wiper fluid.
- Replace any worn tires and check air pressure regularly.
- Have your brakes, brake fluid, oil, car battery, heater and exhaust checked to make sure everything is running efficiently.
- Keep an emergency preparedness kit in your vehicle stocked with batteries, battery powered or hand-crank radio, flashlight, windshield scraper, jumper cables, mobile phone charger, shovel, blankets, first aid kit, non-perishable food and bottled water in the event you get stranded or stuck
For more information and tips, visit Michigan.gov.