Checklist: Cold Weather Survival

Tips from Real-Estate-Agents.com

by David Hollies, reprinted courtesy of ServiceMagic.com

For your house

1. Close cut-off valves to and open all exterior faucets.
2. For pipes prone to freezing, leave nearby faucet dripping on coldest nights.
3. If away, have a neighbor check on things daily.
4. Be prepared with back-up heat sources such as firewood or space heaters.
5. Keep flashlight with fresh batteries handy.
6. Keep a few jugs of extra drinking water on hand.
7. Don't use kerosene heaters in an enclosed space.
8. Don't heat up the car in the garage with the garage door closed.
9. Make sure your chimney damper is closed when not in use.
10. Make sure you have snowmelt and a snow shovel on hand.
11. Check that all storm windows and windows are closed and latched.
12. Make sure that attic insulation does not cover eave or soffit vents.
13. Check for drafts around doors and windows and replace weather stripping where necessary.
14. Close curtains at night to help insulate windows.
15. Minimize use of kitchen and bath exhaust fans.

For your car

1. Use sandbags or other heavy objects to add weight to the trunk of rear-wheel drive cars.
2. Place sand, kitty litter, or brown paper bags in trunk to help with traction on ice.
3. Keep two windshield scrapers on hand.
4. Keep a flashlight, candles and matches in the glove box.
5. Carry a good sleeping bag or blankets and a space blanket in case you get stranded.
6. Never travel without good waterproof boots.
7. Install snow tires or carry chains.
8. Refill the gas tank when it is half empty.
9. Check the windshield fluid every time you get gas.
10. Get a cigarette lighter adapter to extend the charge of your cell phone.
11. If stranded, stay with your car and:

• Slightly open window on the side of the car away from the wind.
• Run the car heater and engine for 10 minutes each hour.
• Leave the dome light on when the engine is running to make you more visible.
• Keep your exhaust pipe free of snow.
• Exercise and flex your limbs to keep your heart rate up.

For you

1. Wear clothing in layers so you can add or subtract items to prevent chills or sweating.
2. Mittens are much warmer than gloves in extreme cold.
3. Covering the head, face, neck and shoulders is important in extreme cold.
4. Use oversized boots with room for extra socks, still leaving wiggle room for your toes.
5. Alcohol makes you feel warmer, but actually, speeds heat loss.
6. If you feel sleepy, get indoors fast. If you can't get somewhere warm, walk briskly or do jumping jacks to increase your heart rate.

-- Tips courtesy of Service Magic