Create A Winter Weather Prep Kit

It’s the time of year for icy winter weather.  And as your insurance agency, we'd like to share a few things to get you prepared before the winter storms hit!

First things first, you want to have the right supplies on hand. Create a basic emergency kit that includes a battery-powered radio and at least one week’s worth of food and safety supplies.  Also include:

• Drinking water
• Canned/no-cook food
• Blankets, hats and warm clothing
• Non-electric can opener
• Prescription medicine as needed
• First aid kit
• Bag of cat litter or sand to add traction on walkways
• Battery-powered lamps
• Carbon monoxide and smoke alarm in working order

And what about when bad weather hits? Here are a few things to put on your winter storm checklist:

• Leave water taps slightly open so they drip to prevent frozen pipes.
• Open kitchen cabinet doors under the sink to keep the pipes warm.
• Have an alternate heat source in case the power goes out. If it's a generator, make sure you have plenty of gasoline to keep it running. If it's the fireplace, make sure you have plenty of dry firewood handy.

The most important thing you can do?  Be prepared!  One benefit to winter storms is that you generally have plenty of warning that one is on the way. Don’t wait until the roads are icy and dangerous, get your supplies packed, your pipes protected, and a backup plan in case of a power outage.  If you can afford it, a generator can be well worth it if the power outage lasts for more than a few hours.

And make sure that you have great homeowners Insurance!  We can help with that.  Call us at 888-867-2866 for a free quote today.