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Winters come with its own set of challenges. Here are some tips that you can follow to protect your house from the harsh weather.
Harsh winters can also lead to hypothermia.
Winter is a season that brings a sense of peaceful beauty and cozy charm, but it also comes with its own set of challenges. While we embrace the joys of winter dressing, hearty meals, and memorable vacations with loved ones, we must also be aware of the hazards it brings. Sub-zero temperatures, heavy snowfalls, and unpredictable weather can disrupt daily life, pose health risks, and threaten safety. This time of year is particularly critical for safeguarding against skin diseases, respiratory infections, carbon monoxide poisoning, hypothermia, and frozen pipes—especially in cities grappling with high pollution levels.
Experts and public safety officials advise on how to prepare for winter’s challenges to ensure safety at home. Let’s explore key tips for winter-proofing your living space.
Staying safe inside your home
During a winter storm, it’s recommended to stay indoors for safety. However, it’s important to avoid running home heating systems continuously, as it can heighten the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), carbon monoxide can be produced by furnaces, stoves, and heaters, and also from activities like using portable generators, running cars in garages, or charging phones indoors.
Carbon monoxide poisoning symptoms can range from mild, such as a headache or slight nausea, to severe, including loss of consciousness and seizures. It’s crucial to be aware of these dangers and take preventive measures to ensure the safety of everyone in the household.
Hypothermia
Extremely cold temperatures and strong winds can make the weather feel much colder and increase the risk of frostbite or hypothermia at a faster rate. Hypothermia occurs when the body’s temperature drops below 35°C, and symptoms may include shivering, weakness, slurred speech, low energy, and pale skin. If you or anyone around you experiences these symptoms, it is crucial to get them to a warm place immediately. Gradually warm them by covering them with multiple layers of blankets, and avoid using direct heat sources to prevent burns or further complications.
Protect water pipes from freezing
During severe winter weather, frozen pipes in a home are a particular problem, as this equipment is often located outside structures. So, make sure to install a flow-based water leak detection system to shut down the water system in an emergency and alert you of any issues. Moreover, cover all outside faucets with insulation kits.
Electric vehicle troubles
Cold weather can pose challenges for electric vehicles (EVs), but with proper planning and adjustments, owners can maintain their vehicle’s performance. In EV batteries, lithium ions flow through a liquid electrolyte to generate electricity. However, when temperatures drop, the ions move more slowly through the electrolyte, reducing the amount of energy released. To help mitigate this, it’s recommended to cover the vehicles and store them in enclosed garages during cold weather. This can help protect the battery and ensure the vehicle operates more efficiently.
Consider installing a backup generator
Water heaters cannot work if there is no electricity. So, install a dual-use generator for natural gas and liquid propane or gasoline to automatically power your home. Besides maintaining heating systems, generators can also keep the WiFi connected, the leak detection operating, and food cold in your refrigerator.
Clean your gutters regularly
Lastly, make sure to clear downspouts, roof gutters, and exterior drainage systems to ensure proper drainage. This will help prevent ice build-up and water overflow during a storm, reducing the risk of damage to your home. Regular maintenance can keep your drainage systems functioning effectively throughout the winter season.
