Winter Storm Preparedness

12/2/2019 (Permalink)

Protect your home from cold weather this winter.

Severe winter storms may not be very common in Texas, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t prepare for them. Don’t be surprised by winter weather this holiday season. Here is how it could affect your home, what you should expect, and how you can prepare.

Do You Know What To Do in Winter Storms?

When they hear the term “winter storms”, most Texans tend to think of blizzards or vast amounts of snow. But that is not necessarily always the case. Winter storms can also include freezing rain, dangerously cold temperatures, and fast, cold winds. Before you’re caught off guard by unexpected winter weather, take precautions in protecting exposed pipes, clean and inspect your fireplace, and put together an emergency preparedness kit. 

To Prevent Frozen Pipes, Prepare for Frozen Pipes

Texas weather can be unpredictable. This means that it’s best to plan for freezing temperatures, even if they’re not in the forecast. Start by removing hoses from their spigots, wrapping exposed piping with foam insulation, and sealing any openings or gaps in the structure of your home. Leave your faucets dripping to allow for a constant flow of water and keep under-sink cabinets open to expose the piping to as much warm air as possible. Preparedness is the key to preventing frozen pipes.

Identifying Frozen Pipes

Even with preventative measures, it’s important to be aware and on the lookout for signs that your pipes may be frozen. If you suspect an issue, addressing it as quickly and efficiently as possible could help protect your home from extensive water damage. 

Your Pipes May Be Frozen If…

• Your piping is covered in frost
• Your piping is bulging or cracked
• There is no water coming out of your faucets
• Your toilets aren’t filling up

Thawing Frozen Pipes

When thawing a frozen pipe, turn up the heat in the room and use a space heater or hairdryer to help get the process started. If your pipe has cracked, keep in mind that the ice is most likely acting as a barrier between the water and the crack. Be prepared with a bucket and towels in the event that leaking occurs as the ice thaws. 

It there is water damage in any part of your home, turn off the water supply valve and call SERVPRO of Denton. 

Keep Warm to Fight the Cold

Make sure you stay warm this winter! If you are looking for alternative, energy-efficient ways to warm up your home, give these methods a try!

• Fireplaces
• Electric Space Heaters
• Wood Stoves
• Kerosene Heaters

Do not use generators to restore temporary electricity, and, to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning, NEVER use charcoal indoors. 

Preparing for Emergencies

Disasters and emergencies can occur on any day at any time! Are you ready? Check out these tips to help you and your family be prepared this Winter! 

Preparedness Checklist

When preparing for emergencies, it’s best to have an emergency kit packed and ready to use at a moment’s notice. Your kit should include: 

• At least 1 gallon of water per person per day (don’t forget your pets!)
• Nonperishable, packaged, canned food, and can opener
• Change of clothes and extra shoes
• Blankets or sleeping bags
• First Aid kit and prescription medications
• Battery-powered radio, flashlights, and batteries
• Extra credit cards, cash, and extra keys
• Family Physicians credentials and emergency contact numbers
• Specialty items for infants, elderly, or disabled family members

Have You Experienced Winter Storm Damage?

SERVPRO of Denton wants to protect you from the effects of water damage. If your pipes freeze or burst, call us any time, any day and we will be there to help! 

Why SERVPRO?

SERVPRO of Denton specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property after damaging event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility for regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property. SERVPRO wants our team to be part of your team! Call us at (940) 566-2277 or follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter!