Prepare for winter at home and away

For some people the thought of winter brings good news and excitement, while for others the thought of winter brings everything except excitement.

However, regardless of one’s thought of winter, majority will agree that winter usually means cold weather and snow. So in preparation for the winter season here are a few tips and steps that may help keep you and your household safe.

When it comes to keeping your home warm and safe during the winter months the Center for Disease Control and Prevention suggests:

-- Mounting of weather stripping, insulation and storm windows.

-- Insulate water lines that run along exterior walls.

-- Ensure that gutters are cleaned and repairs are made to roof leaks.

-- The organization also recommended checking your heating systems.

-- Clean and inspect fireplaces and chimneys.

-- Ensure you have installed your smoke detector, and tested the batteries. Batteries should be checked monthly and replaced twice a year.

-- Have a safe alternate heating source and alternate fuels available.

-- In efforts of preventing carbon monoxide (CO) emergencies, it is recommended to install a CO detector to alert you of the presence of the deadly, odorless, colorless gas. Understanding and learning the symptoms of CO poisoning is important. As the symptoms of CO poisoning are: Headache, dizziness, weakness, upset stomach, vomiting, chest pain, and confusion.

Many individuals spend time outdoors during the winter months, so it is important to take note of precautions while outdoors during these months.

Outdoor precautions include:

-- Ensure you are properly dressed for cold weather: Wear a tightly woven, preferably wind-resistant coat or jacket; inner layers of light, warm clothing; mittens; hats; scarves; and waterproof boots.

-- Work slowly when doing outside chores.

-- Learn safety precautions to follow when outdoors.

-- Utilizing the buddy system while outdoors, and carrying a cell phone with you.

Preparing your car for winter:

In efforts of ensuring your car is winter ready, several precautions are recommended which include:

-- Checking the tire tread, and if necessary, replacing tires with all-weather or snow tires.

-- Keep gas tank full to avoid ice in the tank and fuel lines.

-- Using windshield washer fluid that is wintertime formula.

-- Keep the following items stocked in your car: cell phone, portable charger, and extra batteries; blankets; food and water; booster cables, flares, tire pump, and a bag of sand or cat litter (for traction); compass and maps; flashlight, battery-powered radio, and extra batteries, first-aid kit; and plastic bags (for sanitation).

Visit www.extension.purdue.edu/putnam or contact the local Purdue Extension Office by calling 653-8411 for more information regarding this week’s column topic or to RSVP for upcoming events. It is always best to call first to assure items are ready when you arrive and to RSVP for programs. While many publications are free, some do have a fee.

Upcoming Events

Dec. 22 – Extension Office closes at noon. The Extension Office will reopen Jan. 3 at the conclusion of the Purdue holiday recess.

Jan. 9 – Junior Leader meeting.

Jan. 15 – 4-H enrollment deadline.