Winter brings cozy moments and seasonal fun, but it also brings real hazards that can catch any household off guard. From burst pipes flooding your basement to icy roads turning your morning commute into a white-knuckle adventure, knowing how to prepare your home for winter can save you time, money, and stress.
Here’s what every Tualatin household needs to know to make it through the cold months safely.
Keep Your Pipes From Turning Into Ice Sculptures
Frozen pipes are one of the most common and expensive winter problems homeowners face. When temperatures drop, pipes in unheated areas like your attic, garage, or crawl spaces become vulnerable. The solution? Insulate exposed pipes with foam sleeves or heat tape before the cold weather hits. On particularly chilly nights, open cabinet doors under sinks to let warm air circulate around your plumbing.
Another simple trick: let your faucets drip. A pencil-thin trickle of running water can prevent freezing by keeping water moving through the pipes. Don’t forget to disconnect garden hoses and drain outdoor faucets completely. That residual water sitting in the line can freeze, causing the pipe to burst inside your wall.
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Winter Driving Tips That Could Save Your Life
Oregon winters can deliver unexpected snowfall and icy conditions that transform familiar roads into slippery hazards. Slow down, because driving too fast for conditions is the leading cause of winter crashes. Your vehicle also needs a winter emergency kit that includes blankets, a flashlight with extra batteries, first aid supplies, jumper cables, and non-perishable snacks like granola bars.
If you get stuck or stalled, stay with your car. Make sure your exhaust pipe is clear of snow to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning, and only run your engine sporadically to stay warm. Keep bright markers visible and your dome light on so other drivers can see you. Never leave your car to wander in a storm because you’re safer inside your vehicle than outside.
Preventing Seasonal Illness Without Going Overboard
Winter illness prevention doesn’t require extreme measures, just consistent habits. Wash your hands thoroughly and frequently, especially before eating and after being in public spaces. Cold and flu viruses spread more through shared surfaces than through the air, so disinfect high-touch areas like doorknobs, countertops, and faucet handles regularly.
Boost your immune system by eating nutrient-rich foods, staying hydrated throughout the day, and getting regular exercise. Yes, even in winter. Physical activity reduces stress hormones and strengthens your body’s defenses against illness. Getting a seasonal flu shot remains the best defense against influenza for everyone over six months old.
Fire and Heating Safety Basics
Space heaters provide quick warmth but require careful handling. Keep at least three feet of clearance around any space heater, plug directly into the wall instead of using extension cords, and never leave them running unattended. Check your heating system before winter arrives to ensure it’s working safely and efficiently.
Look Out for Your Neighbors
Winter can be isolating, especially during severe weather. Check on elderly neighbors and those living alone to make sure they have heat, food, and necessary medications. Sign up for local weather alerts to stay informed about approaching storms or dangerous conditions. Tualatin’s community strength shows brightest when residents look out for each other during challenging weather.
Keep your thermostat set to at least 55 degrees even when you’re away from home. This prevents pipes from freezing and ensures your heating system can maintain safe temperatures. A little prevention now beats dealing with a plumbing disaster or heating failure during the coldest week of the year. Stay warm, stay prepared, and keep your household safe all winter long.
Sources: travelers.com, opensnow.com, discovertualatin.info
Header Image Source: Elijah Chen on Unsplash
