Save headaches and money by taking steps now to get your home and car ready for winter. How do I start to winterize my home? Start at the top with your roof. Check for damaged or missing shingles. You don’t want water or ice to get under your shingles and leak into your house. Roof damage can be expensive. Also check your gutters. Remove debris and leaves that can clog and cause water damage. Should you trim trees before winter? Trim trees to get limbs away from your house. The weight of ice and snow could damage your roof or parked car. How can I avoid water damage in winter? Before a winter storm hits, drain and cover exposed pipes like those in your garage and outside. If your water stops flowing, turn off the main water valve. It’s outside, usually near the street. What other tips do you have to winterize your home? - Drain your HVAC lines. - Clean the lint from your clothes dryer vent. - Hire a professional to clean your chimney. - Test your smoke and carbon monoxide alarms. How do I prepare my car for winter? Check your car’s battery, fluids, tire pressure, and windshield wipers. Extreme cold is hard on tires and can cause the pressure to drop. Windshield wipers, belts, and hoses can wear out faster and crack. What should be in an emergency kit for my house and car? Gather blankets, nonperishable food, bottled water, flashlights, and spare batteries. For your car, you might want a first-aid kit and emergency flares. If you have a portable charger, don’t forget to keep it charged up. Winter storms: Tips for preparing your house and pipes How to prevent pipes from freezing How to make your house winter-ready Winter driving safety tips