How to Prepare your Home for Winter Storm Izzy

1/14/2022 (Permalink)

The winds forecasted for Winter Storm Izzy can produce power outages that can last up to a week or more.

Winter storms can cause just as much damage and property issues just like any other storm. That's why it is good to follow specific instructions and prepare your home and family for the unexpected before it's too late. 

Winter Storm Izzy is a major winter storm coming in from the Midwest, sweeping across the South, and going East toward West Hartford through Martin Luther King Jr. weekend. 

Winter storm warnings, winter storm watches and winter weather advisories have been issued by the National Weather Service for Winter Storm Izzy.

Like any large blizzard, Winter Storm Izzy has the potential for below freezing temperatures, several inches of snow and ice, and strong winds throughout West Hartford Monday. Power can go out at any moment with strong winds and freezing temperatures therefore it is important to follow these tips to remain prepared.

Lets begin with some steps we can take before the storm hits:

Step #1:Maintain the Safety and Health of Your Family

The winds forecasted for Winter Storm Izzy can produce power outages that can last up to a week or more. It's a good idea to set your refrigerator and freezer to the coldest temperatures possible before the storm hits. In an unopened refrigerator, food will keep for 4 hours, and in a full freezer, it will keep for 48 hours.

To protect the health and safety of your family make sure to keep plenty of non perishable food items on hand. Other important items to stock up on in the next few days include:

• A gallon of water for every person for each day
• A first aid kit
• Flashlights with batteries
• Charged electronics including cell phones
• Medication
• Cash
• important paperwork (identification and insurance)
  
  

Step #2:Reinforce Your Structure

Check on your roof

If your home’s roof is flat or has a flat portion, be sure to remove snow carefully to prevent snow and ice buildup. Ice can weigh up to 57 pounds per square foot. With several inches of snow it can put your roof at risk of collapsing.

Don’t Let Water Pipes Freeze

A common issue we see in the winter is frozen water pipes therefore planning ahead is key. You can lose power, your furnace can malfunction or if the weather gets too cold outside your pipes are at risk for freezing and bursting resulting in inches of water damage. To prevent bursting pipes be sure to use a generator or an alternative source of heat to keep the warmth in your home. In addition, be sure to seal your home by wrapping insulation around your pipes and throughout openings in your attic to make sure no heat escapes

How to Prevent Ice Dams

Not only are your pipes at risk of freezing but when ice builds up on the side of the roof it forms an ice dam that prevents the melting snow from draining properly. This water ends up leaking into your home through your windows and walls. In order to stop water from entering your house, add insulation above your ceiling to keep the roof warmer and prevent ice buildup. Make sure your roof's gutters are clear of any leaves or sticks that prevent further drainage.

If you have suffered damage from a storm or other flooding disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of West Hartford at 860-216-2785

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If your home or business suffers a flood, call SERVPRO of West Hartford today at 860.206.6141 for immediate water damage cleanup and restoration of your structure and property

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