Avoid the Chicago Winter Snowpocalypse with These Tips

December 21 marks the first day of winter, and Cook County State’s Attorney Anita Alvarez is urging county residents to think ahead and prepare now for the inevitable severe cold and snow.

“Living in the Chicago area, we should not be caught off-guard when it comes to dealing with the winter elements,” Alvarez stated.  “Some pre-planning before the severe cold and snow hits will help residents to cope with the elements more comfortably.”

The following precautions can help maintain comfort in your home during severe winter weather:

• Install a programmable thermostat.  Set the temperature at 68 degrees while you and your family are home and awake, a few degrees lower while away or at night while sleeping.  
• Close vents and shut doors of any unused rooms.
• Protect against frozen pipes by insulating pipes near outer walls, in crawl spaces or attics.  Wrap pipes in UL approved heat tape and seal any leaks that allow cold air inside where pipes are located.  Disconnect garden hoses and shut off water and drain pipes leading to outside faucets.  If pipes do freeze, shut the water off at the main source and call a plumber.  NEVER try to thaw pipes with an open flame or torch.
• Have a battery powered radio, flashlights and extra batteries on hand in case of a power outage.  Avoid using candles for light -- they can become a fire hazard.
• Minimize drafts by caulking around or placing weather-stripping inside door openings and windows.  
• If using an alternative heating source, such as a fireplace or space heater, be sure to have proper ventilation and keep flammable materials a minimum of three feet away.  NEVER use an oven as an alternative heat source.
• Be sure to have plenty of non-perishable food and bottled water on hand in the event of a storm that forces you to stay in your home for several days.

If you must go outside:

• Always dress in layers.  Wear loose-fitting, lightweight warm clothing -- air trapped between layers helps to insulate.  The inner most layer should be made of a synthetic ‘wicking’ material such as fleece which will keep perspiration away from the body; the outer layer should be a tightly woven, water repellent coat or jacket with a hood.  Layers can be removed to avoid perspiration and subsequent chill.
• Always wear a hat and mittens.  You lose at least half your body heat through your head and mittens offer more protection than gloves by utilizing body heat to keep fingers warm.
• Use a scarf over your mouth and nose to protect your lungs from the cold air
• Wear wool socks for warmth and keep feet dry as possible.
• When working outside, do not overexert yourself.  Take frequent breaks indoors to rest and warm up.  Be sure to drink plenty of water and stay hydrated.  

Make sure to winterize your vehicle:

• Have a winter storm survival kit in your vehicle.  It should include a blanket, flashlight and batteries, first aid kit, high calorie, non-perishable food, extra clothing, small shovel, sand or kitty litter, windshield scraper/brush, tool kit, tow rope, and booster cables.
• Always check your vehicle’s wiper blades, tire pressure, and fluid levels (windshield washer, radiator, gas tank, oil, power steering and brakes).
• Lubricate door and trunk locks to prevent freezing.
• If taking long trips, try to travel during daylight hours and give your itinerary to a friend or relative, including routes you plan to travel and estimated arrival times.  Be sure to check in.
• Always buckle your seat belts.

Remember to check on elderly neighbors and relatives as they can be more susceptible to cold related illness and injury.  Make sure their homes are adequately heated and that they have plenty of food on hand.

Taking some preventive measures before the severe cold and snow hits can make the winter months more tolerable.

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Editor's Note: This information was provided via press release.