Tips to Stay Safe in Winter Storms with Insurance One

There’s a lot of great things about a Michigan winter. There’s skiing, snow days, sledding and more. But there’s a lot of things to watch out for in the winter, too. From frozen pipes, slick roads and icy sidewalks can lead to big, expensive fiascos.

So, we put together some tips to keep you safe and free from stressful situations this winter!

Be aware of weather forecasts. When local authorities report conditions in your area, keep an eye on the actual temperature and the wind chill temperature. Take note of Winter Storm Warnings/Watches as they arise. A Winter Storm Warning means severe conditions have already begun or will start within 24 hours. A Winter Storm Watch means severe conditions could start within 36 to 48 hours.

Prepare your vehicle. When the weather takes a turn, keep off the roads as much as possible. If you must get on the roads, make sure to do the following proactive tasks. Fill your anti-freeze and washer fluid tanks, check the tread on your tires, fill your gas tank, keep a windshield scraper handy, and leave a blanket and warm clothing in the trunk in case of an accident or breakdown. We also recommend packing some granola bars (just in case!).

Get your home. Extreme cold creates more risk for things to go wrong within your home. First things first, you do not want to deal with your pipes freezing. Review this post to keep your pipes in good shape. Also, check to make sure your carbon monoxide and smoke detectors are working.

Learn frostbite signs and treatment. The colder the air, the more quickly frostbite can occur. If the temperatures reach an extreme low, you can get frostbite in as few as five minutes. Gently warm the area in warm (not hot) water or use body heat if you experience frostbite. We know that you can work up a sweat while shoveling the driveway, but keep yourself bundled and covered!

If you’re looking for more ways, to stay safe and protected this winter, connect with an Insurance One rep today!