As an insurance agent, I often encounter claims that could have been avoided with a little preparation. Here in the South, freezing temperatures are rarer than they are for our Northern friends, but can still wreak havoc on homes and vehicles when they do occur. With a few simple precautions, you can minimize damage and ensure your safety during these chilly spells. Here’s how to prepare for and handle freezing temperatures effectively.

Protect Your Pipes

Burst pipes are one of the most common and costly issues during a freeze. Southern homes are often built with plumbing that isn’t insulated for extreme cold, so protecting your pipes is essential.

• Drip Faucets: Keep a small trickle of water flowing from your faucets. Moving water is less likely to freeze, and it reduces pressure buildup in the event of a freeze.

• Insulate Pipes: Wrap exposed pipes in insulation or use heat tape, especially in unheated areas like crawlspaces, garages, and attics.

• Open Cabinets: Leave cabinet doors open under sinks to allow warm air to circulate around the pipes.

• Know the Main Water Shutoff: If a pipe bursts, shutting off the water quickly can prevent extensive damage. Make sure you know where the valve is and how to operate it.

Prepare Your Heating System

Your heating system is your first line of defense during a freeze, so ensure it’s in good working order.

• Service Your Furnace: Have your furnace inspected annually to avoid unexpected breakdowns when you need it most.

• Use Space Heaters Safely: Space heaters can provide extra warmth but must be used with caution. Keep them at least three feet away from flammable materials and never leave them unattended.

• Close Off Unused Rooms: Focus your heating efforts on the rooms you use most. Seal off unused areas to conserve heat.

Protect Your Home Exterior

Freezing temperatures can damage roofs, gutters, and other outdoor structures.

• Clear Gutters: Remove leaves and debris from gutters to prevent ice dams, which can cause water to back up and damage your roof.

• Seal Cracks: Inspect windows and doors for drafts and seal them with weather stripping or caulk. This not only keeps your home warmer but also reduces your energy bill.

• Cover Outdoor Faucets: Use foam covers or wrap outdoor spigots to prevent freezing. Disconnect garden hoses to avoid ice blockages.

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Safeguard Your Vehicle

Cold weather can also take a toll on your car, so a little preparation goes a long way.

• Check Antifreeze Levels: Make sure your car’s antifreeze is topped off to prevent engine freezing.

• Inspect Tires: Cold temperatures can reduce tire pressure, so check and inflate them as needed for optimal traction.

• Prepare an Emergency Kit: Keep a kit in your car with essentials like blankets, a flashlight, water, and a phone charger in case you’re stranded. (Lexi and I shared a video about this kit and more vehicle preparations this past summer.)

Be Prepared for Power Outages

Freezing weather often leads to power outages, so it’s wise to be ready.

• Stock Up on Supplies: Have plenty of food, water, and warm clothing on hand. A backup heat source, like a propane heater, can be a lifesaver—but ensure it’s used safely and in well-ventilated areas.

• Charge Devices: Keep phones and other devices fully charged before the storm hits.

• Use Generators Wisely: If you have a generator, use it outdoors and away from windows to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning.

Review Your Insurance Coverage

In case you didn’t do this last month, now’s a great time to review your insurance policies. Despite your best efforts, accidents can happen. 

• Homeowners Insurance: Verify that your policy covers water damage from burst pipes and other freeze-related issues.

• Auto Insurance: Confirm your coverage includes collision and comprehensive damage caused by icy roads or falling debris.

Conclusion

A little preparation can save you a lot of trouble when freezing temperatures hit the South. By taking proactive steps to protect your home, vehicle, and family, you can weather the cold with peace of mind. If you have questions about protecting your property or want to review your insurance coverage, don’t hesitate to reach out. Together, we can ensure you’re ready for whatever winter throws your way. 

Contact Mark's office at 615-672-5848 with any questions. Or pop by and visit (when the roads aren't icy) at 411 TN-76 in White House (next to Sonic).