Winter is here

Published 10:35 am Wednesday, January 3, 2018

Like you, we’re getting a sense of deja vu because of the forecast for snow this evening and tomorrow. You’ll recall that last year almost at this time, the region got a range of 4 to 8 inches. Even without any snow, the temperatures remain frigid, no thanks to the arctic air mass that’s overstaying its welcome.

While we can’t wish away the frost or snow, we can share advice on staying warm, thanks to suggestions from the Federal Alliance for Safe Homes.

• Be a volunteer snow angel. Volunteer to check on elderly neighbors, friends, or relatives who may need assistance.

• Wear layers of loose fitting, lightweight, warm clothing rather than one layer of heavy clothing. The outer garments should be tightly woven and water repellent. Never burn charcoal for heating or cooking indoors.

• If you are using a gas heater or fireplace to stay warm, be sure the area is properly ventilated.

• Arrange ahead of time with family, friends, or neighbors for a place to go if you have an extended outage. If you have nowhere to go, head to a designated public shelter. Text SHELTER + your ZIP code to 43362 (4FEMA) to find the nearest shelter in your area (example: shelter 12345)

• Insulate pipes exposed to the elements or cold drafts with insulating foam.

• Drip faucets to reduce the build-up of pressure in the pipes. Even if the pipes freeze, you have released the pressure from the water system reducing the likelihood of a rupture.