Winter Weather is Coming:
Winter Storm Outlook - Winter storm conditions are possible in the next 2 to 5 days Winter Weather Advisory - Winter weather conditions are expected and may be hazardous. Winter Storm Watch - Winter storm conditions are possible within the next 36 to 48 hours. Winter Storm Warning - Life-threatening, severe winter conditions have begun or will begin within 24 hours.
What to Do:
Clear Rain gutters
Place plastic over windows to reduce heat loss
Identify and know how to use the main water shut-off valve(s)
Stock up on fuel in case of power failure
Remove tree branches that may contact the building if snow or ice accumulation occurs
Mark locations of fire hydrants, curbs, drains speed bumps and other features that may be hidden by snowfall to prevent damages.
Check that you have a snow removal plan in place and ready
Stock up on salt and sand
Check insulation around pipes
Keep snow, water, and ice away from hydrants, valves, and standpipe connections
Determine where snow should be moved to
Seal gaps in the Building’s exterior to prevent weather, as well as rodents from entering the building
Icy Conditions:
Freezing Rain - Rain that freezes when it hits the ground, creating a coating of ice on roads, walkways, trees and power lines. Sleet - Rain that turns to ice pellets before reaching the ground. Sleet also causes moisture on roads to freeze and become slippery.
What to Do (in addition to previously mentioned)
Stock up on salt and sand to reduce the risk of a slip and fall
Clear walkways of ice as soon as possible
Check railings and fix any that are lose
Set downspouts to drain in areas away from foot traffic
Snow Fall
Blizzard Warning - Sustained winds or frequent gusts to 35 miles per hour or greater and considerable amounts of falling or blowing snow
What to Do (in addition to previously mentioned)
Clear parking areas and walkways as soon as weather calms down
Clear snow off of roofs to reduce risk of structure collapse (if dangerous to access roof, hire a contractor who is qualified)
Check that drains are clear for run off of melting snow
Dropping Temperatures
Wind Chill- the temperature it “feels like” when you are outside Frost/Freeze Warning - Below freezing temperatures are expected.
What to Do (in addition to previously mentioned)
If the temperature is dropping, let your faucets drip slowly to prevent pipes from freezing
Make sure all pipes are properly insulated
Know how to shut of water valve in case of bursting pipe
Maintain a temperature of at least 45 degrees in all unoccupied building areas, including any basements or attic areas.