What is the Polar Vortex?
According to the Farmer’s Almanac, we can expect the winter to be “one of the longest and coldest that we’ve seen in years.” Extreme cold weather has plagued the country the past few years, including devastating cold temperatures from the Polar Vortex. But what is the Polar Vortex? The Polar Vortex is a large area of low-pressure and cold air surrounding Earth’s poles. It strengthens in the winter, causing the area to expand as far as the Midwest and Plains states. This sends blasts of frigid air into the Midwest and the Plains states, causing frozen pipes and severe winter weather conditions. The Polar Vortex is a regular occurrence in the United States. Learn how to prepare for the Polar Vortex and other severe winter weather with these tips from ServiceMaster DSI.
How to Prepare for the Polar Vortex
Extreme winter weather can wreak havoc on your property and your family. Here are a few steps to prepare for the winter weather months.
Dress appropriately for winter weather. Be sure to wear gloves, a scarf, and a hat in the bitter cold weather.
Stock your vehicle. Create an emergency kit with items like blankets, food, water and flashlights.
Prepare for electrical outages. Make sure you have blankets and flashlights readily available. Also, consider charging all electronic devices, bottled water, and non-perishable foods.
Protect your home from the outdoor elements. Make sure windows and doors are locked and seal any areas that may have drafts.
Watch for frozen pipes.
Frozen Pipe Preparedness
Any time the temperatures are low enough, frozen pipes are a big concern for home and business owners. Frozen pipes are one of the leading causes of property damage in the wintertime. Taking preventative measures can save you time and money, along with giving you peace of mind. Here are some tips from ServiceMaster DSI to prevent frozen pipe damage.
Keep garage doors closed if that is where water supply lines are located.
Open cabinet doors to allow warm air to circulate around pipes.
Let water drip from the faucets served by exposed pipes.
Keep the thermostat at the same temperature day and night.
Know where your main water shut-off valve is located
If you follow these steps, it can help prevent disaster in your home or business. If your pipe has a water leak, shut off your water immediately by locating your main water shut-off valve and turning it off. While the damage has already been done to your pipe, this will save you from further water damage in your home. If you find your home or business has a water loss due to frozen pipes, give our restoration experts a call on our 24/7/365 disaster hotline at 800-954-9444.
