Severe winter weather – including blowing snow, slick ice, chilling winds, and frigid temperatures – can cause power outages, frozen pipes, and snow loading. These conditions have resulted in serious safety implications, not to mention losses, for many homes and businesses. Knowing what to do before winter weather strikes can help you safeguard your loved ones, home, property and business: Be cautious with generators.These devices create deadly fumes and contribute to carbon monoxide poisoning if used incorrectly. Generators— which must only be used outside — should be kept dry and remain at least 20 feet away from windows, doors, and vents. From there, you can plug appliances into a generator with heavy-duty outdoor extension cords. Maintain building heat. Conserve heat by keeping all doors and windows closed. Stay inside. Remain indoors and off the roads as much as possible. If you must go outside, do so in short increments and dress in warm layers. If you must drive, take your cellphone with you and pack an emergency kit. Know the signs. Seek immediate medical care if you or someone you know displays signs of frostbite, hypothermia (e.g., shivering, confusion, numbness, pain when rewarming the skin or a whitish-yellow tint to the skin), or signs…

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