Across our state we are seeing more extreme weather year after year. In an effort to help you stay warmer and safer this winter, I hope you will find the following tips informative and take action now to keep yourself and your loved ones protected from the cold this winter.

The most important tip is to plan ahead. Now is the time to make sure your winter snow removal gear is in good working order and make sure you have the appropriate snow removal gear near the entrances of your home as well as inside your car. Make sure to always remove snow from your tailpipe and clear your entire car, including the roof, lights and windshield from ice and snow.

Before temperatures continue to drop, this is also the time to properly winterize your home, including turning off access to water outdoors and emptying hoses. Finish any lingering home improvement projects to ensure your home is well sealed from the elements, and make sure the yard is free from debris, toys, flower pots, tools or furniture that can be damaged or prevent egress once the snow comes. Schedule a fireplace cleaning or inspection to make sure your fireplace or wood stove is in safe working condition should you decide to use it this winter.

This is also the right time to make sure you’re signed up for any local alerts and warnings. Stock up on emergency supplies, and change the batteries in carbon monoxide detectors, smoke alarms and flashlights. It’s always important to make sure your insurance needs are up-to-date – take a moment now to make sure your insurance meets your growing needs and to safeguard those documents. Make sure to always have a few extra days of prescriptions on hand in the event a snow storm or flood prevents you from getting to the pharmacy.

Whether or not you live alone, you should identify friends or family you can contact in an emergency. Know where your community’s safe warm-up stations are, in case you lose heat in your home. If you lose power, dress in warm layers. Don’t use your cooktop or oven as a heat source, and never use generators, camp stoves, grills or propane heaters indoors – the carbon monoxide can kill you or you could easily start a fire. Stay indoors and off the roads as much as possible during and immediately after a storm. Never leave your pets outside – make sure they are indoors, warm and properly prepare for their needs as well. Pay attention to the temperature, wind chill and storm conditions before venturing outside to remove snow or ice from your home. Always dress in warm, dry clothing and sturdy footwear when going outside.

Many of you may have heard these tips before, but we all can always use a helpful reminder – especially when it comes to keeping ourselves safe. If you’re already prepared for winter, this is also a nice time to check in on elderly family, friends and neighbors and offer your help to them. Wishing you all a warm and safe winter season. As always, please do not hesitate to contact me if I can be of further assistance.