Winter Storm Preparation

We’re not even a week into the fall season and we’re already experiencing a drop in temperatures. The drop might be slight, but it’s a drop nonetheless. And we don’t know about you, but we’re ready for more! Even though we’ve still got a ways to go before the temperatures drop below the 70s, it’s always a good idea to prepare ahead of time for the winter season and the severe weather that could follow.

We’re bringing this issue up ahead of schedule because September has been deemed National Preparedness Month, so naturally it seemed like perfect timing. Earlier in the month, we wrote a couple of posts on how you can prep your house for the fall, and you can find those here and here. This week, we’re going to focus our efforts towards helping you get a plan together in case severe weather hits the Oklahoma area. Depending on the severity of a storm, you could be without heat or power for some time. But don’t panic – we’re going to help you prepare by providing some important tips you can follow to minimize panic and uncertainties.

A couple of different organizations have come up with some really great prep sheets on what to do before, during, and after a storm. Our goal here is to ensure your safety and help you feel some type of comfort, as minimal as it may be, during a time when your power and heat might be out.

FEMA has put together an entire packet that you can print, and it’s all about how to prepare for a winter storm. This here is a shortened, bullet point checklist you can tack on to your refrigerator. The packet also includes an emergency checklist of items you should keep on hand, such as food, water, medical supplies, blankets, wood, etc.

The Red Cross has also put together a useful checklist you can keep on hand. Even though FEMA and Red Cross share much of the same content on their check lists, it’s good to keep both on hand for added measure.

The biggest fear that comes with a winter storm is the possibility of being without heat.  We recommend calling a licensed professional as soon as possible so that heat can be restored to your home in a timely manner. For some people, being without heat could be incredibly dangerous. Don’t risk your safety – call right away! Until a technician can address your problem, try these tips for keeping warm!

• Purchase a space heater – Invest in a space heater! You won’t regret this. It’ll be especially beneficial because this type of heater is portable.
• Layer up – Getting around might be a little more difficult, but you’ll be thankful for the extra layers.
• Blankets – Invest in some really warm blankets. Always choose the thicker ones, like wool or fleece. You can even opt for a heated blanket!
• Warm foods and drinks – This might seem pretty obvious. Keep to soups, hot tea or coffee, hot chocolate, etc.
• Keep it closed – To help trap heat, keep doors and windows closed as much as you can.

For information or assistance with HVAC efficiency, give Interstate Heating & Air Conditioning a call at 405-794-8900.

Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Google+ to learn more about maintaining a safe and energy-efficient home. Don’t forget to schedule your fall furnace tune-up for the upcoming cold season. Schedule service online or give us a call!