Get #WinterReady for the Cold Weather in the Upstate!

With the Upstate of South Carolina bracing for extreme cold temperatures and the potential for wintery weather, now is the time to prepare your home and family for the chilly days ahead. Ensuring that you’re ready for freezing temperatures can prevent costly repairs and keep everyone safe and comfortable throughout the season.

Here are some simple tips to help you get #WinterReady and protect your home from the cold:

1. Protect Your Pipes

Frozen pipes can cause significant damage to your home, leading to expensive repairs and water loss. Take a few simple steps to safeguard your plumbing:

• Insulate pipes and faucets: Use foam pipe insulation, heat tape, or towels to cover exposed pipes, especially those in unheated areas like basements, attics, and garages.
• Let water trickle from faucets: During freezing temperatures, leave faucets running at a small drip. Moving water is less likely to freeze than stagnant water, so even a small amount of flow can make a big difference.
• Know location of shut-off valve: In case a pipe does freeze and burst, it’s important to know where your home’s water shut-off valve is located. Being able to quickly turn off the water supply can minimize damage.

2. Check Heating Systems

Ensure your heating system is functioning properly before the cold weather hits. This includes:

• Changing filters: Replace HVAC filters to ensure efficient airflow.
• Schedule an inspection: If your heating system hasn’t been serviced in a while, now is a good time to have it checked out.

3. Seal Drafts

Cold air can sneak in through gaps and cracks around windows and doors. Seal up these spaces with weatherstripping or caulk to keep the heat inside and the cold out.

4. Stock Up on Essentials

In case winter weather makes travel difficult, make sure you have essential supplies like:

• Extra blankets and warm clothing
• Batteries, flashlights, and a battery-powered radio
• Non-perishable food and bottled water
• First-aid kit and necessary medications

5. Prepare Your Car

Before winter weather arrives, check your car to ensure it’s winter-ready:

• Inspect tires for adequate tread and proper inflation.
• Top off fluids like windshield wiper fluid and antifreeze.
• Pack an emergency kit with blankets, a flashlight, non-perishable snacks, and any other items you may need in case you’re stranded.

By taking these simple steps to prepare, you can protect your home, family, and property from the harsh winter weather that’s expected. Stay warm and safe this season, and be #WinterReady!