We see this several times every winter, the temperature drops, the snow gets deep, the wind chill factor gets frigid and the danger risk goes up. In spite of that, many of us forget to prepare ourselves ahead of time and wait until we are in the middle of it to react.  This is your reminder for your vehicles.

 

Before the bad weather hits:

  • Fuel your vehicle up- you don’t want to be stuck in your vehicle in bad weather on a quarter tank of fuel.  Also, fueling up in nicer weather is much easier on YOU!
  • Pack a safety kit- tow rope, jumper cables, blanket, candles with a way to light them and flares are great to have.  Additional light sources such as a lantern or flashlight might come in handy.  Now that you have packed it together, take it and put it in your vehicle!
  • Get a spare key made for your vehicle so you can let it run and keep it locked.  If you can afford to, get a remote starter.  You won’t regret it.
  • Check your headlights, windshield wipers and make sure you have a window scraper.

Day of Bad Weather:

  • Let your vehicle warm up for 10-15 minutes before driving- much safer and a lot more comfortable.
  • Leave early- you don’t know what the conditions are so give yourself plenty of time.
  • Leave space- leave lots of room between you and other vehicles. Although you may be in control of your vehicle, those around you might not be as fortunate.
  • Leave a road map- Let those around you know where you are going, what route you plan to travel, when you left and when you got there.  If something happens, the sooner people know, the sooner you can be helped.
  • Tune into 560 KMON to listen for weather and road updates or call 511
  • Most importantly, being late or not going at all is not the end of the world.  I would rather be late and alive than…..well, you get the drift.

For your House

  • You can use blankets and towels to seal leaks.  This is a short term solution, but could help avoid a bad draft during a bad spell.
  • Make sure all accesses to under your home is closed and sealed.  Cold air can sneak in and freeze pipes.
  • If you have pipes that may be exposed to cold air, wrap them with electric tape or find another way to keep them protected.  Sometimes, even a regular lightbulb (not fluorescent) may be enough to keep the pipes from freezing.
  • Have a professional inspect your house and provide tips on how to best winterize.  A few dollars up front will save you thousands of dollars and many headaches later.
  • Keep rooms that have water in them warmer than other rooms.  Kitchen and bathrooms will have the most exposure.
  • Have backup heaters that can be used in case of a power outage.

Be safe! Spring just over 35 days away

If you have a story idea or something you want to learn more about, give Randy a call at 406-788-3003 or send me an email at randall.bogden@townsquaremedia.com

Great Montana Weather Scenery

Various weather pictures from around Montana

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