By James M. How
Where did 2022 go? I guess the saying is true, “Time flies when you’re having fun!” As things opened up and people started to move around and gather together again, it felt like things were finally getting back to normal. We were all distracted by meeting with our friends and families, eating out in restaurants, going to movies…and this year just flew right by!
December is a great month to look forward to. Whether it’s the holidays, the season or the many events taking place, December has its own “vibe.” No matter what you plan on doing this December, remember to take safety seriously, especially up here in the mountains. Even though we all know winter is coming, many of us may not be ready for its arrival. With all the people moving to NC, this may be their first actual winter experience in a long time or – even – ever! So here are some tips to prepare for the cold weather and, depending on how El Niño treats us, some tips for snowfall as well.
- Prepare your home by installing weather stripping, insulation and storm windows.
- Make sure waterlines that run along walls have proper insulation. You definitely don’t want to deal with a busted pipe when the temperature is in the low 20s.
- After all the leaves have finally fallen, get up there and clean those gutters. Blocked gutters can retain water and freeze during cold nights – the weight can tear your gutters right off your house!
- Double-check all your heating systems. Make sure they’re clean, working properly and ventilated to the outside.
- Prepare your vehicle by servicing the radiator, and maintain the antifreeze levels. Make sure your tires have appropriate treading and – if necessary for you mountain dwellers – replace tires with all-weather or snow tires. Keep the gas tank full to prevent ice building up in the tank and fuel lines. Keep an emergency kit in your car. Make sure the kit has at least a cell phone charger, items to stay warm, water, booster cables, a flashlight (with extra batteries) and a first-aid kit.
- And here’s an inside tip: stock up on blankets for your home and your vehicle – your pets will love the snuggles!
Last – but definitely not least – be ready to check on family and neighbors. And if you have pets, bring them inside, or at least make sure they have a warm shelter and water to drink. December is truly a great month – being prepared and taking safety seriously will help everyone we love enjoy it!
James How is a Community Outreach/Medicare Advisor with FirstCarolinaCare. He loves living in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains and enjoys hiking, camping or just sitting by an open fire with his wife, their two crazy dogs Kea and Cooper, and a bag of marshmallows.
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