You Can’t Stop Winter, But You Can Stay Safe.
Winter Home Safety.
Tips & Checklist for Seniors.
Sometimes you just have to leave your home, even on cold wintery days. Here are a few tips when you leave your house in extreme winter weather. Plus, tips on Winter Home Safety.
Leaving the House in Extreme Winter Weather Can Be Daunting.
Here is a Checklist for Seniors to Help to Keep You Safe.
- Bring a cane or walking aid with you, if necessary.
- Be prepared so remember to bring along any medications you might need in the next 24 hours. Have an updated medications list, too.
- Bring enough extra cash for bus or taxi rides.
- Wear anti-skid shoes and boots with the laces tied.
- Tell someone where you are and where you are going, and expectant arrival and return times.
- Pack water and a snack. If there is a delay, it's important to stay hydrated and energized. This is especially important for seniors with diabetic concerns and needs.
- Make sure you are wearing several layers and include a wool hat, gloves/mittens, a coat and a scarf.
- Know your transportation options to an from the destination.
- Don't drive unless it's an emergency.
- Only walk on cleared off and dry sidewalks. Beware of "black ice" and stay clear of it.
- Use any and all available handrails.
- Make sure you have your cellphone with you. Have it fully charged and keep a list of emergency contacts.
- Bring your cellphone charger.
- If driving, keep a warm blanket inside your vehicle.
- If driving, make sure your vehicle has a full tank of gas, and the oil and tires have been checked."
If You Need to Leave Your Home During Cold, Winter Weather, You Want Your Home to Stay Safe Also.
Here Are Tips for Seniors:
- Schedule maintenance for furnaces and fireplaces/wood burners to ensure they are safe to use.
- If you depend on a fireplace or wood burner for heat, you'll want to make sure you have enough wood (or wood burning products) to last the winter.
- 3If you still have a coal burning furnace, make sure you have enough coal.
- Propane tanks need to be filled, if that is the type of fuel needed.
- Keep all heat sources and vents clear of clutter.
- Never leave portable heaters unattended.
- Keep fire extinguishers on hand and near heat sources.
- Check batteries in portable radios, flashlights, smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors.
- If the electric goes off, keep aware of lit candles. Keep them clear of burnable items and clutter, blow them out when retiring for the night.
- Stock up on flashlights.
- Make sure you have extra batteries of all sizes.
- Have smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors installed on every floor of the home, and make sure they are working.
- Put entry or garage lights on a timer or light sensor so they come on as soon as it gets dark each day.
- Keep the home well-lit by installing the maximum watt bulbs indicated.
- Holiday decorating requires safety precautions as well: never leave holiday lights on inside and out when leaving the home.
- Turn off the Christmas lights on a live tree before going to bed for the night. And, never leave them on when not at home. Keep live trees watered regularly.
- If you are away for a few days, ask someone to clear off the walkways, steps, and driveway upon your return.
- Icicles can be beautiful, but their weight can cause issues on spouting, drains, etc."
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