Be Prepared for Winter Emergencies

A heavy winter storm can leave you housebound for days. Weather the storm with our tips to prepare for storm-related power outages:

• Invest in a portable generator to keep heating systems, refrigerators and freezers working when the power is out. You’ll also need a supply of gas on hand to keep it running. Be sure to only use the generator outdoors and set it up at least 20 feet from your home to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.


• If you don’t have a generator, you can pack perishable foods from your freezer and refrigerator into coolers and store them outside in the snow.

In an unheated house, the possibility of bursting pipes is all too real. You can lower the chance of this potential disaster by taking a few smart steps. Leave the doors of cabinets that house pipes open so warmer air from the house circulates around the pipes. Moving water won’t freeze, so let water from your kitchen and bathroom faucets drip to keep water flowing through the pipes. You can also prepare in advance by adding insulation to pipes with Frost King Tubular Foam and Rubber Pipe Insulation, which is pre-slit to easily slip over exposed pipes. Watch our video for simple DIY installation tips.