We have compiled a few winter preparedness tips for Columbia Town Center residents.
The holidays are around the corner, which means it’s officially winter! The days are getting shorter, the temperatures are dropping, and soon we might see snow. Before winter approaches, it’s essential to plan ahead. Winter also involves icy roads, frozen pipes, or even the risk of injury during harsh weather. Preparing for winter means preventing accidents and having what you need if you or your neighbors experience an emergency. We have compiled a few winter preparedness tips for Columbia Town Center residents.
Ensure You Have the Essentials
Plan ahead and stock up on essentials like ice melt, firewood, shovels, or a snowblower before severe weather sets in. If you wait, you may find empty shelves at your home center when a blizzard or ice storm is forecasted. Ensure you have all the necessary tools to get through a snowy day. When snow falls, it is the property owner’s responsibility to clear all sidewalks that abut their property. Some other winter must-haves include:
- Smoke alarm batteries
- AM/FM radio for emergencies
- Distilled or bottled water
- Fire extinguishers
- Sand or kitty litter
- Batteries
- Candles, flashlights, and matches
- Generator fuel
- Antifreeze
Familiarize Yourself with Snow Removal Procedures
Howard County is responsible for removing snow from roads, neighborhoods, and cul-de-sacs around Columbia. Please refrain from parking on streets after a snowfall, especially on a cul-de-sac, because it makes snow removal nearly impossible for highway crews. Parking in one’s driveway allows police officers, firefighters, and paramedics to respond quickly to public safety tasks while driving in treacherous conditions. It leads to quick and complete clearing of the roads.
Know Who to Call in an Emergency
Plumbing, HVAC, and post-storm home repairs are common types of neighborhood winter emergencies. Personal winter emergencies are led with icy slips as the leading cause. If you or a neighbor experiences a winter emergency, you must know who to call and have a backup plan.
The Bureau of Highways provides access to emergency vehicles during life-threatening emergencies such as birth, illness, death, fuel deliveries, or fire upon the request of the Police Department or Department of Fire and Rescue Services. Call 911 immediately if you are experiencing an emergency situation during a snow event.
The Community Services page on our website also has contact information for essential services, like fire, police, snow removal, and medical emergencies.
Seal Windows and Doors
An important part of winterizing your home is keeping heating bills down and effectively blocking the cold winter air. Add weather stripping to your doors and seal any window gaps. Ensure all your windows stay locked to prevent a draft from sneaking in. You can also use plastic window film to seal your windows.
THRIVE AT COLUMBIA TOWN CENTER
Town Center is one of the ten villages of Columbia, Maryland. Our Village offices are located in Historic Oakland, one of the most beautiful historic buildings in Howard County. In the heart of Columbia, Town Center’s residents enjoy living in an urban community in a suburban setting with close proximity to all Columbia amenities, attractions, and cultural activities. Visit us to learn more about our community at 5430 Vantage Point Road, Columbia, MD 21044. Call us at 410-730-4744 or visit our website https://www.columbiatowncenter.org/