Ways To Stay Safe During Extreme Cold Weather

Safety should be your top priority during extreme cold. Here are essential safety measures:

Create an Emergency Kit

Assemble a kit that includes:

• Non-perishable food and water for at least three days

• Flashlights and extra batteries

• A battery-powered or hand-crank radio

• First aid supplies

• Warm clothing and blankets

Prepare for Power Outages

If you have an alternate source of heat, make sure to also have plenty of fuel. Place portable generators outside and away from windows to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. Keep your cell phones charged and have portable chargers on hand.

Please be advised, when our area is experiencing extreme cold temperatures, it is important to take preventative measures to avoid frozen pipes and heat loss in your home.
Here are a few proactive ideas:
• Drip Water From The Faucets - Letting a faucet drip during extreme cold weather can prevent pipes from bursting. A small steady drip of water prevents freezing.
• Check Your Windows – It may seem like an obvious tip, but checking all of the windows in your apartment to make sure they are closed and locked will reduce radiant heat loss. Also all window ac units should be removed so the window can be sealed.
• Check Your Heating Vents – Take a minute to double check that all your vents are open and aiming the right direction. If you pay your own heat, please be advised that it is required that you maintain active gas and electric accounts in order to keep the home heated and avoid the possibility of pipes freezing. If you are having issues with your furnace or heating equipment, please notify maintenance immediately. Failure to maintain utility accounts is a direct violation of your lease. However, in order to prevent damage to the property, please notify our office of any issue right away so we can work with you on finding a solution. If you plan on leaving your residence for any extended period of time, the heat must be left on in order to prevent frozen pipes. Frozen pipes may burst and any damage incurred to your personal property is not the responsibility of the property or its insurance. If there is negligence that occurs by a tenant they can be held liable for damages by both residents and the landlord. Tenants must have up to date renter’s insurance. If you need any assistance please contact the maintenance department as soon as possible at 540-388-7870 or via email: maintenance@lakeannavirginia.com