Nebraska weather certainly has a way of keeping us on our toes! One day we're enjoying a beautiful fall afternoon, and the next we're wondering why we live somewhere our faces hurt!
As colder temperatures approach, Nebraska extension EDEN team wants to remind residents that now is the perfect time to prepare their homes, vehicles, and families for the winter season. A little preparation today can help prevent a major emergency tomorrow.
Winter brings more than just snow and freezing temperatures. It also brings increased risks of home fires, carbon monoxide exposure, frozen pipes, and dangerous driving conditions. Here are some simple precautions.
Heating Safety
Before turning on your furnace for the season, make sure it has been properly inspected and is working safely. If you use space heaters, keep them at least three feet away from anything that can burn, including furniture, curtains, bedding, and decorations. Always plug space heaters directly into a wall outlet, place them on a level surface, and turn them off when leaving the room or going to bed. Never use an oven or stovetop to heat your home.
Check Those Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarms
Winter is an especially important time to make sure smoke alarms and carbon monoxide (CO) detectors are working properly. Test your alarms regularly and replace batteries as needed. Carbon monoxide is odorless, colorless, and potentially deadly. Make sure your home has working CO alarms near sleeping areas and on every level of your home.
Protect Your Home and Water Pipes
Freezing temperatures can cause exposed water pipes to freeze and burst, resulting in costly damage. Insulate exposed pipes, disconnect outdoor garden hoses, and know where your main water shutoff is located. During extremely cold weather, keep your home at a consistent temperature and open cabinet doors under sinks to allow warm air to circulate around plumbing.
Fireplace and Wood-Burning Stove Safety
If you enjoy a warm fire during those cold Nebraska evenings, make sure your fireplace and chimney are inspected and cleaned regularly. Keep anything combustible away from the fireplace, use a proper fireplace screen, and never leave a fire unattended. Allow ashes to cool completely before disposing of them in a covered metal container.
Prepare Your Vehicle for Winter Travel
Winter driving conditions can change quickly in Nebraska. Keep an emergency kit in your vehicle that includes blankets, extra warm clothing, a flashlight, batteries, bottled water, snacks, a first-aid kit, and a phone charger. Check your tires, battery, windshield wipers, and antifreeze before winter weather arrives. Before traveling, check road conditions and let someone know where you're going. Remember, if conditions become dangerous, the safest choice may be to stay home until the roads improve.
Look Out for Your Neighbors
Winter can be especially challenging for elderly residents, individuals with disabilities, and those who may need a little extra help. Take a moment to check on your neighbors, especially during extreme cold or winter storms. A simple phone call or visit could make a big difference.
A Little Preparation Goes a Long Way!
We want everyone to take a few minutes now to make sure their homes and families are ready for the winter months ahead. Emergencies don't always give us a warning, but being prepared can help reduce the risks and keep our community safer.
Stay warm, stay safe, and look out for one another this winter!
