Winter Cleaning - What to do After the Storm

For homeowners and businesses alike, dealing with the aftermath of a winter storm can be challenging. Major snowstorms disrupt travel, knock down power lines, uproot trees, and cause damage to homes and buildings. The temperature can actually make things worse, especially when the temperature fluctuates between above and below freezing because any snowmelt that occurs during the periods of above freezing temperatures will turn into ice when the temperature drops back below freezing.  

So far, the 2018/2019 winter season has seen 9 major named winter storms that brought heavy snow and extreme cold conditions. Just like other types of natural disasters, it is important to begin cleanup as soon as it is safe to do so. Here is a helpful checklist to aid you in tackling winter storm cleanup safely. 

The Blizzard is Over - Now What?

1. Check for Downed Powerlines First

Blizzard conditions can easily knock down power lines and trees, producing a major safety hazard for you and anyone else in the area. Therefore, the very first thing that must be done after the storm clears is a visual check for downed lines in your yard. If you see downed lines, do not approach them as there may still be electricity running through the lines and can travel through wet snow to cause life-threatening injuries. Don't let your kids or pets out either. Instead, call the power company and wait for assistance. This is one job you should always leave to the professionals.

2. Check the Carbon Monoxide Detector Batteries

Although you hopefully did this prior to the storm, make sure to check that the device is still in working order. This is especially important if the storm has knocked out power for your area. There is no guarantee that the power company will be able to restore power quickly, which means you will likely need to use alternative heating methods to stay warm.

3. Check your Pipes  

During the storm, there is a chance that your water pipes froze. Damage from frozen water pipes can easily flood your home if not repaired immediately, so turn off the water supply then call a professional plumber to repair the pipes. Again, this is a job that is best left to a professional as the damage may extend further than you can easily see. 

4. Cover any Broken/Shattered Windows

This goes without saying, but I'll say it anyway - broken windows are terrible at keeping out the cold. You can fix these temporarily with plywood or blankets for insulation. 

5. Look for Leaks 

Scan the ceilings in your home or building. If you see leaks, this likely means there is roof damage or other structural damage. If you can, stay with a neighbor until you can have the damage repaired. If that isn't possible, try to stay only in an area without any leaks. Snow is heavy and can come crashing through your ceiling, especially if there is already structural damage. 

6. Check the Chimney (If You Have One)

This goes along with checking the carbon monoxide detector. If your chimney has structural damage or is blocked, do not light a fire as the smoke will back up into your home, which is a potentially lethal situation. If there is damage, calling a professional to repair the damage is the safest route. 

7. Down with the Broken Tree Limbs

If you have trees near your home, check for damaged or broken limbs. Tree limbs do not always fall as soon as they are damaged but when they do fall, they can damage your home or yard or even cause injuries. If there are broken limbs and you are comfortable with removing them immediately, do so. Otherwise, call a professional crew to remove the damaged limbs. 

8. Keep the Radio Nearby

Although you may receive emergency notifications to your smartphone, it is also wise to keep a battery-powered radio nearby to listen for any announcements, roadblocks, delays, or other important information. Try to avoid driving unless absolutely necessary.

9. Clear your Walkways if Possible

This one is probably pretty obvious, but you should try to clear snow from your driveways and walkways as soon as possible after the storm to avoid issues caused by thawing and refreezing of snow as the temperature fluctuates. Clearing the walkways of ice and snow will help you avoid slip and fall injuries. 

10. Call the Pros to Clear the Streets

The city you live in may do a fantastic job of clearing the streets but if you must be out and about before they get a chance to clear your streets, call a professional snow removal team. They will come with the right tools to get the job done quickly and effectively.