Home Preparation for Winter
Preparatory Steps
Never try to thaw a pipe with a torch or other open flame (risk of fire). You may be able to thaw a frozen pipe with a hairdryer. Start by warming the pipe as close to the faucet as possible, working toward the coldest section of pipe.
Supplies on Hand
The American Red Cross is a good source of information. Call them at 503.284.1234 or log onto www.redcross.org, under Disaster Services, click onto "Disaster Supplies Kit." They recommend at least a 3-day emergency supply of necessities, such as I gallon of water per person, portable radio, flashlights, batteries, extra blankets, manual can opener, ready -to-eat foods, medication and medical supplies.
RR 1103
Preparatory Steps
- Drain outside water faucets, including the backflow device
- Bring in or batten down items that can fly in strong winds
- Clean gutters and drains
- Protect water pipes from freezing, including pipes in crawl spaces and attic. Wrap pipes with insulating material, heat tape, or thermostatically controlled heat cables
- In freezing weather, let water trickle from faucets with pipes
- on outside walls.
- Open cabinet doors to allow heat to get to uninsulated pipes under sinks and appliances near exterior walls.
- If you're going away, set the thermostat no lower than 55 degrees
- Seal off windows and doors.
- Have your chimney cleaned. Chop plenty of wood.
Never try to thaw a pipe with a torch or other open flame (risk of fire). You may be able to thaw a frozen pipe with a hairdryer. Start by warming the pipe as close to the faucet as possible, working toward the coldest section of pipe.
Supplies on Hand
The American Red Cross is a good source of information. Call them at 503.284.1234 or log onto www.redcross.org, under Disaster Services, click onto "Disaster Supplies Kit." They recommend at least a 3-day emergency supply of necessities, such as I gallon of water per person, portable radio, flashlights, batteries, extra blankets, manual can opener, ready -to-eat foods, medication and medical supplies.
RR 1103
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