Last year, Chicago experienced a brutal winter, one for the record books. The Old Farmer’s Almanac forecasts another chilly Chicago winter filled with rain and snow. With predictions for colder than normal temperatures and above average snowfall in most of the region, Chicagoans need to prepare for another harsh winter that is expected to extend from December to February.
Preparing Your Home and Vehicles for Winter
Your home is your fortress against the frigid temperatures and heavy snowfall, but it is especially vulnerable to frosty conditions if it is not properly prepared. The City of Chicago provides a helpful pamphlet with tips on how you can protect your house and vehicles, including preventing and fixing frozen pipes, winterizing your car and making a family emergency plan.
You can stop the cold from seeping in by replacing worn weather stripping, loose siding and damaged roof shingles. Scatter de-icer on the driveway and porch steps to deter dangerous slips, and remove built-up ice and snow from the eaves and gutters to prevent damage to your house.
Restock Your Emergency Supply Kit
Frequent power outages from severe winter storms means you must prepare to survive the harsh conditions without modern conveniences. At a minimum, your emergency supply kit should contain water, non-perishable food, candles, a radio and flashlight with extra batteries as well as blankets and extra clothing for staying warm. Keep a duplicate kit in the trunk of your vehicle in case you get stranded away from home.
Storing Items During Winter
Your Safeguard Des Plaines IL storage units and Chicago IL self storage units are a great place to stash extra emergency supplies during the warmer months if space is tight in your home. This option is especially useful for storing bulky backup generators and alternative heating and cooking sources. If your summer camping gear is already packed away in your self storage unit, then make sure it is easily accessible.
A storage unit provides a safe and practical place to secure your seasonal items, such as holiday decorations and outdoor furniture, which you want put away before the blustery storms descend. Air conditioned and heated storage units can keep your valuable, environmentally-sensitive items safe as well since the units do not drop below freezing. This is a great option for protecting precious family heirlooms, valuable musical instruments and prized antiques from severe elements.
Contact Safeguard Self Storage to learn about our variety of options for Des Plaines IL storage units and Chicago IL self storage units.