Ways to Winterize Your Home Before a Winter Storm

• Insulate exposed pipes to prevent freezing and bursting.

• Seal windows and doors with weatherstripping or caulking to keep out drafts.

• Clean gutters and downspouts to prevent ice dams and water damage.

• Have your heating system inspected and serviced by a professional.

• Stock up on firewood if you have a fireplace or wood stove.

• Check the roof for damaged shingles and repair as needed.

• Install or check smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.

• Trim tree branches that could fall on your house during heavy snow or ice.

• Keep a supply of rock salt, sand, or non-clumping kitty litter for walkways.

• Prepare an emergency kit with flashlights, batteries, blankets, food, and water.

How to Stay Safe During a Winter Storm

• Stay indoors and avoid unnecessary travel.

• Keep warm by wearing layers and using blankets.

• Use space heaters safely and only if they are approved for indoor use.

• If you must go outside, dress in warm, waterproof clothing and limit time outdoors.

• Monitor weather updates and emergency alerts.

• Avoid overexertion when shoveling snow to reduce the risk of injury or heart attack.

• Keep mobile devices charged in case of power outages.

• Use generators outdoors and away from windows to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.

• If the power goes out, close off unused rooms to retain heat.

• Check on neighbors, especially those who are elderly or may need extra assistance.

Keep your pets safe!

To care for pets in the cold, keep them indoors as much as possible, provide warm shelter, limit outdoor time, protect paws with booties or balm from ice/salt, ensure fresh water (not frozen), use ID/microchips, and be cautious with antifreeze/de-icers; dress short-haired pets in coats and monitor for shivering, limping, or whining, which signals discomfort or frostbite. 

Indoor Care & Shelter

• Warm & Dry: 

Ensure pets have a cozy, draft-free spot, elevated off the floor, with blankets or straw for insulation. 

• Hydration: 

Provide plenty of fresh, unfrozen water, as pets can get dehydrated. 

• Extra Calories: 

Consider slightly increasing food portions as they burn more energy staying warm. 

• Emergency Prep: 

Keep an emergency kit with food, water, meds, and blankets in case of power outages. 

Outdoor Safety

Limit Exposure: 

Keep walks short, especially in severe cold; if it's too cold for you, it's too cold for them. 

• Protect Paws: 

Use booties or paw balm to shield paws from ice, snow, and de-icing salts; rinse and dry paws after walks to prevent irritation and toxicity. 

• Identification: 

Keep ID tags and microchips up-to-date, as dogs can get lost easily in snow. 

• Leash Up: 

Never let dogs off-leash in snow or ice; they can lose their scent and get lost. 

• Water Hazards: 

Avoid frozen ponds, lakes, or rivers; ice can break, putting pets at risk. 

Chemical Dangers & Other Precautions

• Antifreeze/De-icers: These are toxic; clean up spills immediately and store them out of reach. 

• Check Cars: Before starting your car, bang on the hood to ensure no stray cats have sought warmth underneath. 

• Watch for Signs: Be alert for whining, shivering, anxiety, limping, or weakness, which can signal cold-weather injury. 

Special Considerations

• Short-haired Pets: Breeds with short fur, small bodies, or older pets need extra warmth and may require sweaters or jackets. 

• Pre-existing Conditions: Pets with health issues may struggle more with temperature regulation. 

Courtesy of:    Deneice Arterburn, Ladybug Real Estate

                               918-282-8246

                               http://Darterburn.kw.com

Disclaimer: The information provided above is for general guidance only and is not intended as a substitute for professional advice. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy and safety of these recommendations, the author assumes no responsibility or liability for any injury, loss, or damage resulting from the use or misuse of this information. Always consult your veterinarian or a qualified professional regarding your specific needs and circumstances.