Recently I’ve noticed a slight chill in the air.  This comes as no surprise considering we are entering the third week of august.  These brisk mornings, and cool afternoons remind me of the fall and what is to come.  Getting through the fall is no problem.  Having your gutters cleaned in preparation for rain and leaves can be a Sunday afternoon affair but winter planning and prep work should be done even before the leaves begin to turn.

Here are a few pointers you should keep in mind for the season to come.

Windows and Doors

Check for gaps in windows, window panes and around doors. This will prevent heat from escaping your home.

If a draft is felt you should caulk gaps around window trim, door trim to stop the draft. Around the moving parts of windows and doors, weather strips can be used to stop drafts. Weather stripping can be found at any Home Improvement store.  Various types are available such as Metal, Vinyl and Foam Strips . Foam Strips are easy to apply and come in a roll which sticks like tape to the door seal after pealing off the backing. Other types attach by nailing in place with small brads and are much more durable than foam. Seek help if needed to apply the stripping because the use of the door or window can be affected if the wrong stripping is used or applied improperly. Ask the supplier which type is best for you, they should be able to answer any questions.

Food Supplies

Second most important to keeping warm is having a proper food cache in case of a severe blizzard that restricts travel.  We currently sell foot kits as well as high caloric food bars for individuals.  Eating is a simple and effective way to keep warm.  It heats the body up.  If the power goes out, you should have no problem keeping food cold but regardless of how cold the temperature inside or outside may be, remember to open the fridge only when you have to as the cold air will escape every time the door opens.

1. Use extra towels, blankets and clothing under doors to prevent any cold drafts or heat escape.
2. Close off unused rooms and block gaps under doors with extra fabrics. Note: Try to keep any water pipes above freezing and leave some water dripping to ward off broken pipes. In very cold temperatures water may need to trickle from faucets if pipes are exposed to the outside temperatures.
3. Dress Warmly to be more comfortable in chilly conditions. Wear flannel pajama pants and shirt and/ or thermal underwear under outer clothing to increase layers and warmth. Wear layers of loose fitting clothing over this. If need be remove layers if you become warm, Don’t sweat or get to hot, this can cause other problems, even leading to frost bite during a period of inactivity, such as sleeping, if moisture is in the clothing next to your skin.
4. Beware of using non electric space heat  not approved for indoor use. You can be poisoned by odorless and colorless carbon monoxide released from burning fuels of any kind including a cooking stove flame. Assure adequate ventilation if you have a open flame. Candles and light bulbs also give off heat if needed (be very careful not to place a heat source near any item that can catch fire).
   Keep fuels like kerosene outdoors, not inside. Never Ever store or bring gasoline indoors for any reason it is highly explosive and flammable.
5. If closing off a restroom containing a toilet during freezing weather, and the room temperature will drop below the freezing level, pour some RV antifreeze (purchased at a automotive or department store) into the bowl and tank of the toilet. Leave water dripping or trickling from all faucets to prevent freezing if need be.
6. If necessary retreat to a single room in the interior of the home with as few outside windows as possible. Cover windows with plastic sheeting, garbage bags or blankets. Close blinds, curtains or draperies to stop cold air. Use small electric space heater, candles (beware of carbon monoxide) or lamps for extra heat. A clip on light and heat lamp supply heat also if electricity is available. (be very careful with any heat source, a home fire will not help your situation and may result in your death or the death of others.) Bundle in layers of clothing.
7. If necessary build a shelter using mattresses, blankets and other available items including extra clothing in the center of the room. Huddle with others if available to share body warmth.
8. Evacuate to a friend’s home or local public shelter if needed. Leave a note for family members if you cannot contact them. Make arrangements for care of your pets since these will likely not be allowed in a public shelter.

Our online store has food kits, emergency blankets and more.  It is the end of August so begin to think about winter.  The cold comes fast and you do not want to be caught unprepared.