Winter Life Hacks For Your Home

• Listen to local and national weather to stay informed of hazardous weather conditions.

• Spread sand, rock salt, or non-clumping kitty litter on walkways and steps to reduce slippery surfaces.

• Leave faucets running, even at a trickle, to help prevent pipes from freezing.

• Make sure all fuel-burning equipment is properly vented outside and the vents are kept clear of obstructions.

• Consider your physical condition before tackling strenuous tasks in cold temperatures.

• Protect yourself from frostbite and hypothermia by wearing warm, loose-fitting, lightweight clothing in several layers. Stay indoors, if possible.

• Bring your animals indoors or check on them to make sure that their access to food and water is not blocked by snow drifts, ice or other obstacles.

• Never use a generator, grill, camp stove or other portable gasoline, propane, natural gas or charcoal-burning devices inside a home, garage, basement, crawlspace or any partially enclosed area. When operating such equipment outside, make sure it is not located near any doors, windows, or vents that could allow carbon monoxide to enter the house.

• The primary hazards to avoid when using alternate sources for electricity, heating, or cooking are carbon monoxide poisoning, electric shock and fire.

• Install carbon monoxide detectors in central locations on every level of your home to provide early warning of accumulating carbon monoxide. Change the batteries in all carbon monoxide detectors before winter arrives.