Jenkins

How to Prepare Your Home for Freezing Temperatures With freezing temperatures rolling in, winterizing your home is a vital step to prevent catastrophe. Here are a few things you can do to prepare your home for freezing temperatures. 1. Properly insulate your home by sealing any drafts around windows and doors with weatherstripping. Consider using thermal curtains on windows and insulate attics and basements with foam board or spray foam insulation. 2. Prepare backup power solutions such as portable generators and battery packs. If you use a generator, remember to keep it outdoors and away from windows. Follow all manufacturers’ instructions to ensure safe operation. 3. Create an emergency essentials kit in case of power outage. This kit may include non-perishable foods, flashlights/batteries, first aid kit, warm blankets, bottled water, thermal clothing, and more. 4. Insulate pipes to prevent freezing and bursting. Pipe sleeves are a great way to add an extra layer of protection by installing them around your pipes. 5. Clear snow and ice from roofs, gutters, and walkways. This includes clearing any debris from your gutters which could otherwise create blockages and ice dams. Preparing your home for the cold can prevent pipe bursts and other property damage. Having a winter safety plan can keep you warm and comfortable no matter what temperature it is outside.

Safety Tips: New Years Celebrations New Years is an amazing time to reflect on the experiences of the year past and celebrate the beginning of new possibilities. In all the lights and celebrations, unexpected hazards could put a damper on your excitement. To avoid starting off your New Year with a potential home disaster, follow these safety tips to keep your home and family out of harm’s way. 1. Avoid fire hazards. Take precaution when using sparklers, fireworks, candles, and other fire or electrical decorations. If you still have a real Christmas tree on display, be sure to check the dryness levels of your branches and thistles before they become a natural fire starter. 2. Prevent electrical mishaps. Don’t overload your electrical circuits. Read the labels on your decorations, and always check your lights to see if they are rated for indoor or outdoor use. 3. Keep your kitchen hazard free. Never leave your oven or stove unattended while they are on. Don’t leave bags or boxes on your stove top. Even if the stove is off it could still have residual heat or worse, it may not be off all the way. We wish you a happy, and safe, New Year from all of us at Jenkins Restorations.