Originally published November 21, 2010 at 6:19 PM | Page modified January 19, 2012 at 8:26 AM
Some tips for keeping yourself, property safe during winter storms
The weather forecast for the Puget Sound area early this week calls for freezing temperatures, snow and ice and windy conditions. Here are some tips on how to keep yourself and your property safe, including dealing with power outages.
The weather forecast for the Puget Sound area early this week calls for freezing temperatures, snow and ice and windy conditions. Here are some tips on how to keep yourself and your property safe, including dealing with power outages.
Ice damage
• To avoid frozen pipes, let water trickle overnight from indoor faucets served by exposed pipes.
• Keep the heat on at least 55 degrees. If your water pipes are not insulated, install pipe sleeves.
• Outdoors, disconnect garden hoses. Drain and cover faucets.
Driving in winter conditions
• Keep headlights on.
• Slow down. If possible, avoid driving when roads are icy.
• Even when roads are dry, watch out for icy bridges.
• Stay at least 15 car lengths (200 feet) back from maintenance vehicles and plows, and don't pass them on the right.
• Don't use cruise control or overdrive in freezing weather.
• Don't pump anti-lock brakes to stop.
• Clear snow and ice from car surfaces before driving.
• Keep safety equipment, spare parts, food and water in the car.
• More winter driving tips at: www.wsdot.wa.gov/winter/
Outages
• Have a power-outage kit that includes flashlights and batteries, glow-in-the-dark sticks, a lantern, matches, a wind-up clock, a portable radio, a Mylar blanket and a can opener.
• To avoid deadly carbon-monoxide poisoning, keep generators outdoors when they're running. Make sure the exhaust is not near a window or other opening to the home. Keep the exhaust and muffler away from combustible material.
• Never burn charcoal indoors. Charcoal produces toxic fumes that can kill quickly.
• Use hot water sparingly.
• Turn off most electrical devices, and unplug sensitive electrical equipment. Leave a light switched on, however, so you'll know when the power returns.
• Never handle or approach a downed power line.
• Dress in layers and cover your head. Close off unused rooms. Close drapes to prevent drafts.
• Use only space heaters designed for the indoors. Even those need to be adequately vented to avoid carbon-monoxide poisoning. Keep space heaters away from curtains and clothing. Always turn off the heaters before going to bed or leaving home.
• Get fresh air and get help right away if you feel sick or dizzy while using a generator or space heater. Fatigue, nausea or sleepiness are signs of carbon-monoxide poisoning.
