Who would have thought that this area would be hit by several feet of snow?  Well, we have been.  So let’s go over some snow safety for you and your home. 

1.  When shoveling, be sure to wear loose clothes and take breaks.  Don’t wait until the snow is done falling to start shoveling.  The snow is easier to remove if you shovel it every couple of inches that fall.  There is nothing worse than taking a trip to the hospital with chest pains in this weather.  Well, maybe a few things worse, but let’s not think about those.

2.  Be sure to clear snow away from hose bibs, dryer vents, and air condensers.  You will also want to clear the snow away from gas meters and fire hydrants.  If you haven’t unhooked your garden hoses and flushed the water from the pipes, go ahead and do it before the next storm hits. 

3.  Keep walkways and sidewalks clear.  Remember to sprinkle snow salt or kitty litter on slick spots.  There are more pedestrians during this sort of weather and it is safer for them to walk on cleared sidewalks than in the street.  The postal service will also not deliver to your house if they can not easily access your mailbox. 

4.  Make sure that your house numbers are visible from the road.  In case of an emergency you want to make it as easy as possible for emergency personnel to find your home. 

5.  If you must drive in this weather, clean off the top of your car.  It is extremely dangerous to drive around with 20 pounds of snow precariously balancing on your SUV.  If that snow flies off you could blind another driver with your snow.  So, take the extra few minutes and clean off your entire car!

6.  Make sure your animals have plenty of food and water.  During cold weather animals tend to eat and drink a little more than normal.  Give them access to food, water, and warm lodging. 

7.  If you are using gas powered products make sure that you have functioning carbon monoxide detectors.  Also be sure that you have plenty of extra batteries on hand. 

8.  Never leave a lit candle unattended.  Accidental fires are a major problem during weather like this.  If you leave a room, blow out your candles. 

If you have any other safety tips you would like to share please feel free to leave them in the comments section!