“As colder months roll in, Michiganders should be prepared, as usual, to prepare for potential frozen pipes, propane shortages, and power outages” said Governor Gretchen Whitmer. “By taking effective precautions, we can all be ready for whatever the Michigan winter wants to throw at us, enjoy the holiday season, and keep our families safe and warm.”
“Michiganders should take every opportunity to prepare for winter weather before it’s here, bringing with it the potential for frozen pipes, propane shortages and power outages” said Col. Joe Gasper, state director of Emergency Management and Homeland Security and director of the Michigan State Police. “Taking steps to prepare your home and vehicle in advance of the cold weather can help ensure your family stays safe all winter.”
To prepare your home for winter:
Weatherproof your home by installing weather stripping and caulking and insulating walls, doors and windows.
Lock in a propane rate now and have a backup heating plan, such as a generator, wood stove or fireplace.
Install battery operated carbon monoxide (CO) detectors near sleeping areas. CO poisoning is more common in the winter months when furnaces are turned on and portable generators are often used for electricity during power outages.
Have an emergency preparedness kit stored safely in your house that includes water, nonperishable food, a first aid kit, extra batteries, a battery or hand-crank powered radio, emergency lighting or flashlights, extra blankets and warm clothing.
To prepare your vehicle for winter:
Have your radiator system serviced, replace windshield wipers and refill wiper fluid.
Replace any worn tires and check air pressure regularly.
Have your brakes, brake fluid, oil, car battery, heater and exhaust checked to make sure everything is running efficiently.