As the seasons change and the air cools, so does the weather in our region.

Though the arrival of winter comes as no surprise, most of us are not prepared for it. Thus, you may find yourself in some scary conditions.

If you are prepared for the many hazards of winter, you will more likely stay safe and healthy when temperatures start to fall.

Inside

Most of us prefer to remain indoors during winter, but staying inside does not guarantee safety. Take these steps to keep your home safe and warm during the winter months.

• Winterize your home by installing weather stripping, insulation, and storm windows. You can also insulate water lines that run along exterior walls.
• Clean out gutters and repair roof leaks. Cleaning gutters will help prevent saturated soil near your home and the need for Akron foundation repair service.
• Check your heating systems. Have your heating system serviced professionally to ensure that it is clean, working properly, and ventilated to the outside.
• Inspect and clean fireplaces and chimneys. Have a safe alternate heating source and alternate fuels available.
• Prevent carbon monoxide emergencies by installing a CO detector. Learn the symptoms of CO poisoning, which include but are not limited to: headache, dizziness, weakness, upset stomach, vomiting, chest pain, and confusion.
• Be ready for power outages.

• During the winter, you may find yourself not being able to leave your home. To prepare for such an instance, stock food that needs no cooking or refrigeration and water stored in clean containers.

• Always make sure your electronics are charged so you can have a way to communicate.

Traveling

If you’re planning to travel make sure you’re aware of current and future weather conditions.

• Have an up-to-date emergency kit including battery-operated devices, extra batteries, first aid kit, extra medicine, and blankets to keep warm.
• Don’t forget to prepare your car for the snow and ice.
• Service the radiator and maintain antifreeze level, along with checking tire tread. If possibly purchase all-weather or snow tires; they help a lot on the winter roads.
• Keep your gas tank full to avoid ice in the tank and fuel lines.
• Add wintertime formula in your windshield washer.
• Prepare a winter emergency kit to keep in your car in case you become stranded. This should include your cell phone, portable charger, extra batteries, food, water, booster cables, flares, tire pump, cat litter or sand, maps, flashlight, first aid, and blankets to keep you warm.
• Always have a warm winter coat, hat, gloves, and shoes in the car just in case you become stranded and need to leave your vehicle.
• When it comes to driving in bad weather taking it slow is one of the best things you can do. It will save you from danger and the need for emergency towing assistance.

No one can stop the onset of winter. However, if you follow these suggestions, you will be ready for it when it comes.