Ridgefield CERT Winter Weather Prep Check List

Winter Weather Prep Starts Now

Falling temperatures and winter weather can bring snowy, icy conditions, nor’easters, blizzards, strong winds, and the potential for power outages. The Office of Emergency Management (OEM) and the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) recommends implementing a home inspection checklist to do a home now in preparation for the winter weather season. (Always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations on all equipment.)

Exterior

• Clean the gutters to avoid ice dams and drain outdoor faucets to avoid exterior pipe freezing.
• Inspect and service generators. Review generator operation instructions for safety.
• Assess nearby trees and limbs for damage. This is a good way to keep vulnerable landscape from damaging property or causing personal injury.
• Bring in, cover and/or secure lawn furniture. This keeps your furniture from causing damage or harm as they become unguided missiles during a storm.
• Check manufacturer’s recommendations on window and door caulking. Caulk where needed.
• Check plow service contract, and/or home plow equipment and snow shovel readiness.
• Buy ice melt.
• Always have access for emergency vehicles.

Interior

• Have chimney and dryer vents cleaned and inspected to avoid fires.
• Test smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors.
• Be sure fire extinguishers are in good working order.
• Insulate interior wall pipelines to prevent freezing. Add additional insulation if needed to save energy.
• Check portable radio and lanterns and replace with new batteries. Assess last winter’s emergency home kit and go bag (in case you need to evacuate in a hurry) and replace outdated items.

To Stay Safe and Informed

• Sign up for Ridgefield Alerts (www.ridgefieldalerts.com) to receive updated emergency information specific to the Town of Ridgefield.
• You can also opt in for: public safety, public works, general government and/or town events.

*Image by HamletHub

R
Submitted by Ridgefield, CT

Become a Local Voice in Your Community!

HamletHub invites you to contribute stories, events, and more to keep your neighbors informed and connected.

Read Next