How to Prepare for the 'Polar Vortex'

• DRESS APPROPRIATELY FOR COLD WEATHER

If you are going outside during this artic blast, you'll want to make sure that you bundle up!  Pile on multiple layers of clothes and be sure to wear gloves and a scarf, as you can run the risk of frostbite in as little as 15-30 minutes - most commonly located on the nose, fingers, cheeks and chin.

• STOCK YOUR VEHICLE

Be prepared in the unfortunate situation of a car breakdown during this cold stretch.  Pack a winter emergency car kit with blankets, food, and flashlights.  Don't forget jumper cables and a good ice scraper!  It's also a great time to stop at the gas station to fill up your tank to prevent any frozen gas lines/tank issues.

• PREPARE FOR ELECTRICAL OUTAGE

Just like with any severe winter weather, you'll be glad you were proactive in the case of a power outage.  Make sure you have blankets, flashlights, and candles accounted for if you find yourself without electricity for any period of time during the polar vortex.  You may also consider having all electronic devices charged up, with back-up batteries ready to go.  Bottled water and non perishable food items are a good idea to stock up on if you find yourself out of electricity.

• KEEP OUTDOOR ANIMALS SAFE

If you have pets or livestock that reside outside of the house, make sure that you have made the proper accomodations to keep thems afe and warm through this cold snap.

• WATCH FOR FROZEN PIPES

Any time we experience temperatures this low, there is a risk for frozen pipes in your home.  If you are able, keep the temperature in your home at a normal, even setting both day and night.  If you are worried about frozen pipes, you can open cabinet doors where plumbing is located in order to allow warm air to circulate near those pipes.  You can also turn your faucets ons lightly to allow for a small, consistent drip, which can help keep water flowing through your pipes.

• THE OUTDOOR ELEMENTS

With temperatures dropping and wind speeds picking up, you'll want to make sure you do everything you can to keep your home from letting in the cold elements.  Go around your house and make sure all windows and doors are locked and not letting in any drafts.  Seal adn block any areas that you can.  Keep your garage door clsoed to help provide an additional barrier to those otudoor elements.

• TEST YOUR SMOKE & CO DETECTORS

Winter is hard on your heating system, even without a polar vortex.  That being said, a dramatic drop in temperature will have your furnace working overtime and really put to the test.  Any time you are operating a gas-powered appliance, you have a higher risk of carbon monoxide being a potential threat to your home.  Take the necessary precaution of a furnace malfunction and make sure CO detectors (and smoke alarms) are present throughout your home.  Test them to ensure that they are operating properly and ready to alert you at the first sign of danger.

• FURNACE FILTER REMINDER

Make sure that your furnace is operating with a CLEAN FILTER through these next stretch of days.  Neglecting to do so could result in a furnace breakdown!