Preventing Winter Weather Woes

2/8/2023 (Permalink)

Winter has its challenges, and snow has been the last of our worries this season.  Like the quick cold snap Cecil County suffered over the holidays, storm, water and fire damage can often occur quickly and without warning.  To help prevent some of the most common forms of fire and water damage in your property during this time of year, follow these precautionary measures!

Water Damage Prevention

• A steep drop in temperature means a higher risk of pipes freezing and bursting.  To prevent this, insulate all exposed pipes.
• Close your indoor valves, but keep your outdoor valves open so water can escape, rather than freeze.
• Faucets can be opened enough to let the water drip during severe cold conditions.
• Remember to use a heating pad or hot towel to thaw a frozen pipe before it bursts.
• Before and after a winter storm, inspect your property for signs of damage.
• Remove snow from your roof carefully and before it has a chance to weigh down your roof or form an ice dam.  This is when an ice formation blocks the melting snow from traveling to your gutters and drains and the water instead leaks into your property.

Fire Damage Prevention

• Have your fireplaces, chimneys, furnaces, boilers and other heating systems checked for issues and repaired as needed.
• Do not overdo it when it comes to your outlets and extension cords.  Do not use broken or damaged wires or plugs.
• Portable heaters should be shut off when you are not in the room or at home.  Flammable materials should also be kept away from these and other heating systems.
• Place candles on a sturdy surface and extinguish them before leaving the home.

Should your residential or commercial property experience a water or fire loss this winter, SERVPRO of Cecil County can assist you with every step of the process.  Our restoration professionals are available to respond 24/7 to emergencies in our area.  We also work quickly and efficiently to restore the affected areas while taking your concerns and belongings into consideration.  SERVPRO of Cecil County is here to help when it comes to water, fire, storm or mold damage services in our local communities!