Winter Preparation and Safety

The winter months are beautiful but can bring lots of unexpected circumstances. As the weather gets colder, it’s important to prepare your car, your home, and yourself for whatever may come your way.

Auto

• Charge or replace your battery as necessary. 
• Have your battery & charging system checked. Most local auto parts stores will do this for free.
• Make sure heaters, wipers, and defrosters work effectively. 
• Ensure tires are properly inflated. 
• Get your brakes checked.

Remember…

• Avoid using cruise control in wintry conditions.
• Increase your following distance to 8 to 10 seconds. 
• Accelerate and decelerate slowly. 

Home

• Have a qualified HVAC repair company inspect your furnace and heat exchanger annually once your furnace is five years or older. 
• Replace your furnace filters every 3-6 months and clean heat registers and cold air returns semiannually. 
• Keep garage doors closed, check the bottom for a good seal against your driveway. 
• Make sure eaves, and down spots are free of fall leaves and debris, if icicles appear on your home it can be an indication of a potential problem with your roof venting system so investigate don’t ignore it. 
• Replace or repair any broken window locks or latches, seal drafty windows with plastic, to reduce your heat loss.

Remember…

• The most common symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning are often described as “flu-like” with a headache, dizziness, weakness, upset stomach, vomiting, chest pain, and confusion. 

Outdoors

• Only shovel fresh, powdery snow. 
• Wear layers of light and warm clothing, a wind-resistant coat, waterproof shoes, and a hat, gloves, and scarf. 
• Carry a charged phone when participating in outdoor activities. 

Remember…

• High levels of activity in cold temperatures put many people at risk of a heart attack. Know the signs to look for and call 911 if you’re experiencing any symptoms. 

Haddad Wilson Group is located at 403 S Clinton St, Grand Ledge MI 48837.  Protecting your future, the things you value and the people you love for 15 years.