Stay Safe: How to Prepare for Extreme Cold Weather
A brutal surge of icy air roaring down from the Arctic, turning familiar streets into frozen battlegrounds, is far more than just cold temperatures and frosty winter weather — it’s an Arctic Blast. What makes this winter storm especially hazardous is how quickly it can turn from inconvenient to life-threatening.
The wind can make it feel much colder than it actually is, increasing the risk of frostbite and hypothermia. Heating systems may struggle to keep up, and power outages can leave homes without heat altogether. Even well-insulated houses and healthy individuals can be caught off guard.
That’s why it’s so important for homeowners to plan ahead. With a little preparation and the right information, you can protect yourself, your family, and your home all winter long.
What To Do Before an Arctic Blast Hits
When forecasters issue a warning about an incoming arctic blast, don’t wait for temperatures to plummet. Preparing your home, supplies, and loved ones while conditions are still safe can prevent dangerous situations later, especially if roads become dangerous, power lines are knocked down, or heating systems fail.
Stock Up on Essentials
Before the cold strikes, make sure you have the basic supplies that can keep you comfortable and safe if you’re stuck indoors for several days. Make sure you have the following on hand:
- Shovels, ice melt, rock salt, or sand for clearing driveways and walkways.
- Batteries, flashlights, candles, and a battery-powered or hand-crank radio in case of power outages.
- Enough non-perishable food, bottled water, and medicine to last you and your household for at least 3–5 days.
Prepare for Power or Heat Loss
If the worst happens and your electricity or primary heat source goes offline, you’ll need a backup plan to stay warm and alert. Gather these items and take the following precautions:
- Safe alternative heat sources like seasoned firewood, propane space heaters (rated for indoor use), or kerosene.
- Extra blankets, sleeping bags, thermal clothing, and layered outerwear to retain body heat.
- Charge your cell phones fully and keep portable chargers or power banks handy.
Winterize Your Home
A few home adjustments can help you avoid costly damage and boost your ability to stay warm even if the heat cuts out. Use these tips to get your home ready:
- Insulate exposed pipes and hoses and let faucets drip to prevent freezing.
- Check the weather stripping under and around windows and doors, and seal any gaps to keep cold air out and warm air in.
- Locate your main water shut-off valve and turn it off in case pipes freeze or burst and flooding occurs.
Make a Family Safety Plan
Communication is key during a weather emergency, especially if family members are in different locations when the storm hits. Here’s what to do:
- Create a family communication plan so everyone knows how to reach each other.
- Designate a meeting place or establish a check-in schedule in case of separation.
- Write down and share emergency contacts and important phone numbers, including local shelters, utilities, and medical providers.
Staying Safe During Extreme Cold
Once an arctic blast is on the way and temperatures fall to dangerous levels, your focus should be to conserve warmth, protect your health, and minimize risk. Extreme cold can be deceptively dangerous, especially if your heating system fails or if you are tempted to take unsafe shortcuts to stay warm.
Manage Indoor Heating Efficiently
To keep your home comfortable without overloading your heating system, take these steps to maximize warmth safely:
- Set your thermostat a few degrees lower than normal to reduce strain on the system and prevent unexpected breakdowns.
- Close doors to unused rooms to concentrate heat where it’s needed most.
- Use space heaters with caution. Always place them at least three feet away from flammable materials, and never leave them unattended.
- If you’re using an open flame, such as a fireplace or even candles, be extremely cautious. Never leave the fire or flame unattended, move flammable objects away, use fire screens and proper candle containers, and keep a fire extinguisher nearby.
- Keep curtains or blinds closed at night to help retain indoor heat and block drafts.
Avoid Common Heating Mistakes
Some heating methods may seem helpful in a pinch but can actually be dangerous or even deadly. Protect yourself and your household by avoiding these errors:
- Never use an oven or stovetop as a source of heat.
- Do not switch your heat pump system to the “emergency heat” setting unless specifically instructed to do so by a heating professional since this can reduce its efficiency and damage the system.
- If you’re using any fuel-burning device (like a propane heater or fireplace), ventilate the room properly to prevent carbon monoxide buildup, and make sure you have functional carbon monoxide detectors.
Stay Indoors & Stay Warm
The best protection against dangerously freezing temperatures is staying inside and limiting your exposure. Follow these safety practices to avoid cold-related injuries and health risks:
- Avoid going outside unless absolutely necessary. If you must, wear multiple layers, and be sure to cover extremities like hands, ears, and nose.
- Keep pets indoors or ensure they have proper shelter and warmth. Animals are just as susceptible to frostbite and hypothermia.
- Stay off roads if conditions are icy or visibility is poor. Save travel for emergencies only.
After the Cold Snap Passes
Recovery after an arctic blast usually involves more than just warming up. It’s important to inspect your home for damage, keep your eyes open for outdoor dangers, and see if there are others who may need extra help.
Inspect Your Home
After several days of freezing weather, your home may have taken a hit. To ensure everything is safe and working properly, take time to:
- Check your heating system. If it isn’t working correctly, call a professional HVAC technician to inspect and repair it.
- Look for signs of water damage caused by frozen or burst water pipes, especially in basements, crawlspaces, or along exterior walls.
- Clear snow and ice from walkways and driveways carefully, and be especially mindful of black ice that can cause slips and falls.
Be Aware of Outdoor Hazards
As the cold fades, new dangers can emerge outdoors. Stay vigilant and protect yourself and your property by doing the following:
- Watch for and report any downed trees or power lines. Stay far away, as they may still be live or unstable.
- Be cautious when walking around buildings. Ice buildup on roofs and gutters can fall unexpectedly and cause injuries.
- Avoid walking or driving through areas that are still flooded or have patches of lingering ice.
Help Out Others if Possible
Recovery goes more smoothly when communities support each other. Take a few extra steps to check in and lend support where it’s needed:
- Reach out to elderly neighbors, friends, or family to make sure they’re okay and have everything they need.
- Help clear walkways or driveways for those who physically can’t do it themselves.
- Share extra supplies or offer a warm, safe space to others if it’s safe for you to do so.
Stay Ready, Stay Warm. Call Airtron for Expert HVAC Support
Don’t let freezing temperatures catch you off guard. Our experienced HVAC technicians can inspect your system before a cold snap hits to make sure it’s running efficiently and ready to handle extreme temperatures. And if your heating system falters during or after a storm, we’re just a phone call away with fast, professional repair service you can trust.
Don’t wait until your home gets cold. Give us a call now or schedule your appointment online.
