Today marks the start of the start wintery weather we were expecting this week.
As snowfall continues across the country, Met Eireann has issued a red alert weather warning for Dublin, Kildare, Louth, Wicklow and Meath.
There is a status Orange snow-ice Warning for Carlow, Kilkenny, Laois, Longford, Wexford, Offaly, Westmeath, Cork, Tipperary and Waterford, and a status yellow for most of the other counties.
With this in mind, there are steps you can take to protect your home.
1. PROTECT YOUR PIPES
If water inside your pipes freezes, it will expand which can cause your pipes to crack and burst. Pipes also can burst when pressure builds up behind a chunk of ice, which is why it’s a good idea to leave taps dripping in very cold weather. Another tip is to open the cupboards under your sink; this will allow the heat from your house to
reach the pipes there.
2. SEAL WINDOWS AND DOORS
Gaps around windows and doors can make it tough to keep your house warm in winter. Keep your heating on at regular intervals or use a timer to ensure your heating keeps running through the cold temperatures. Keep doors to all rooms closed to keep the heat in. If you can, seal around windows and install weather stripping around
doors as needed. This minor and inexpensive task can help you save on heating costs.
*Attic, gutters and drains
Check in your attic and look for any signs of leaks from the exterior. Look for wet insulation, dark stains or water dripping from the underside of the roof. Clear all drains and gutters of leaves and debris so that there isn’t a back-up causing blockages and preventing the run-off of rainwater on your property.
* Inspect the fireplace and chimney
Ensure your fireplace and chimney are clean and clear of nesting
animals.
A professional chimney sweep can clean out soot and other debris that
could catch fire. Keep your home’s warm air from escaping out the chimney when you’re not using it by keeping the flue closed all the way. You shouldn’t be able to feel any cold air coming down the
chimney.
3. STOCK UP ON COLD-WEATHER ESSENTIALS
When winter storms hit, they often come with power outages. To ensure you and your family are prepared, you will want to have an emergency kit ready. Consider having these cold-weather specific items on hand such as a working, fully charged mobile phone, torches and batteries and a shovel.
* Keep in touch with family and neighbours
You should also develop a plan for communicating or meeting up with family in case you aren’t together when a winter storm hits, check in with your neighbours to see whether they need assistance, in particular, the elderly and those living alone.
You can also check out top tips on driving in this weather.
This handy guide was put together by Liberty Insurance.