Ripple Effects

Well, I’ll just bet y’all thought I’d decided to simplify my life (and yours!) by reducing my electronic footprint.  *Snort!* You should be so lucky!  I was just caught up in all the pre-post-Holiday fal-der-al and trying desperately to get back on track.  Not so sure I’m back on track…but Old Man Winter is rattling my window panes so I felt compelled to jot a few notes for everyone.  And of course, if you’re taking the time to read this….you know the rules!  You must share the information with someone….anyone….I don’t care who…just be sure to share!

So what could possibly be so earth shattering that I had to sign on this blustery afternoon?

Cold.  Bitter, Bone-Chilling Cold.  Not just chilly mind you.  Chilly would be, say, somewhere in the 20degree neighborhood.  Our weather forecasters are calling for wind-chills over the next 24hours or so, to dip down to 15-20degrees below zero.  Yes….below zero!  So I thought I’d shoot out some general reminders for folks. 

• Do you know someone who lives alone and doesn’t really have anyone to check on them?  Be a good neighbor/friend/citizen and check on them.  There are so many people who cannot afford to properly heat their homes and care for themselves in these extreme cold snaps.  Those who are vulnerable in the best of times (the very old, very young, socially isolated, economically restricted, etc.) become even more so during extreme situations.  How tragic to read in the newspaper about the elderly woman down the street that died of exposure and no one knew for a few days. 
• Do you know how to keep your water pipes from freezing?  What to do if they do?  Some very simple actions like (1) Running even just a trickle of water through your faucets, (2) Leaving under-sink cabinet doors open to allow room heat to circulate can help keep your pipes from freezing when the temperatures dip to dangerous levels.  If your pipes do freeze, never use open flame sources to thaw.  Be sure to leave faucets on at a trickle so that as the water thaws it can continue to drip/run out. 
• Keep in mind that alternate heating sources may lead to other problems.  Space heaters can be used to help out, but be sure to use them safely.  Never around loose fabrics (draperies, loose bedspreads) and never leave them unattended.  Remember the days of turning on the gas oven and opening the door?  Carbon monoxide  buildup in the home, or pilot light malfunction could prove to be disastrous!  Candles do not put off enough heat, but you might be surprised at how many people with try it.  Again – the fire danger far outweighs any possible benefit.  And no….you cannot bring your gas grill into the house to heat it up! 
• Do you have a fireplace that you use?  They’re wonderful, but please be sure to maintain it properly.  Check the inside for cracks or other signs of wear and tear.  Have it cleaned and inspected yearly to make sure there isn’t a buildup of creosote, or something blocking the airflow (like a bird’s nest).  Woodburning?  Then only burn wood in it…not newspaper, books, magazines, etc.  Some materials can emit toxic fumes when burned or become very much “airborne” thus increasing the risk of sparks escaping the fireplace.
• If you must leave the warmth and comfort of your home, be sure to dress appropriately.  Layers are your friends.  They may not be very fashionable, but they will definitely help you tailor your warming needs to the situation.  Hats, gloves, socks, coats, jackets, pants…you name it.  More is better if the temps are trying to run off the thermometer!  And if you’re out and about running errands, be sure to pay attention to your vehicle as well.  Make sure you have a full tank of gas (in case you get stuck in traffic), some emergency supplies in your trunk (blanket, flashlight, jumper cables, etc.), all fluids are checked (windshield washer, anti-freeze), and your tires are in good condition. 

There is tons and tons of information out there — and if you’ve been clicking on the links above, you’ll be well on your way to skulking it out.  The main thing is to be informed.  Listen to the weather so you know when these weather events are going to happen.  Listen to the experts – TV, radio, internet – they’re all around us, and they are all wanting to help YOU be safe!  And finally (my favorite part here…), share the information you do find.  Tell your friends, family, co-workers, neighbors…anyone who will listen. 

Be Aware ~ Be Informed ~ Be Safe