Preparing for the Winter Storm!

January 23, 2026

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Winter Weather Is Here!

Simple Steps to Protect Your Home, Your Drive, and Your Business

As a powerful winter storm moves across the United States—bringing snow, ice, and bitter cold to the Tri-State area and beyond—now is the time to take proactive steps to protect what matters most.


A little preparation today can help reduce damage, prevent disruptions, and keep you, your family, and your business safe as conditions worsen.

Protect Your Home & Family


Heating & Interior Safety

  • Change furnace filters to improve airflow and efficiency.
  • Keep vents and returns clear of furniture or obstructions.
  • Maintain consistent indoor temperatures during extreme cold.


Plumbing Protection

  • Let faucets drip slightly, especially overnight.
  • Open cabinet doors under sinks to allow warm air to circulate.


Fire & Carbon Monoxide Safety

  • Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
  • Keep space heaters at least three feet from flammable items and never leave them unattended.
  • Never use ovens, grills, or open flames for heat.


Quick Exterior Prep

  • Bring in or secure outdoor items that could blow away.
  • Disconnect and drain outdoor hoses.
  • Park vehicles away from trees or branches that could fall under snow or ice.


Stay Safe on the Roads

If travel is unavoidable, preparation is just as necessary behind the wheel.


Plan Ahead

  • Consider whether your trip is necessary. Staying home is often the safest option.
  • Keep your gas tank full or your electric vehicle charged.
  • Let someone know your route in case cell service is limited.


Prepare Your Vehicle

  • Charge your phone and keep it plugged in while driving.
  • Clear windows, lights, and mirrors, and ensure tires are in good condition.
  • Keep an emergency kit with warm clothing, blankets, food, water, medications, a shovel, and sand or kitty litter.


Drive Carefully

  • Reduce speed and avoid cruise control on slippery roads.
  • Watch closely for pedestrians who may be harder to see in snow or low light.


If You Become Stranded

  • Stay with your vehicle unless a safe building is nearby.
  • Run the engine sparingly for warmth and keep the exhaust pipe clear.
  • Use hazard lights or emergency triangles and move periodically to maintain circulation.


Protect Your Business

Winter weather can cause costly property damage and business interruptions if systems are not adequately prepared.


Prepare Your Property & Operations

  • Review and activate snow-removal contracts, and keep entrances, exits, and emergency access points clear.
  • Inspect building conditions, focusing on heating systems, insulation, doors, and windows.
  • Monitor indoor temperatures closely, especially overnight and during extended cold spells.


Protect Sprinkler Systems from Freezing

  • Ensure adequate heat and airflow throughout the building to help prevent freezing.
  • Pay special attention to mechanical rooms, closets, stairways, warehouse areas with large doors, and spaces above ceilings.
  • Monitor sprinkler piping near exterior walls, windows, atriums, and water supply tanks.


Respond Safely During Extreme Cold

  • If systems freeze, increase heat and airflow to thaw safely — never use open flames.
  • Have a qualified sprinkler contractor inspect and confirm systems are fully operational before resuming normal operations.
  • Keep sprinkler valves and fire department connections clear of snow and ice.


These winter preparedness tips reflect guidance commonly shared by our trusted insurance carrier partners and industry safety experts.


At Desmond Insurance, we believe preparation and prevention are key to protecting what matters most. If you experience an emergency or have concerns during severe winter weather, our team is available 24/7/365.


📞 Emergency Call Service: 859-491-5100, Option 3

We are here when you need us most.


Thank you for trusting Desmond Insurance to deliver value-driven, professional solutions rooted in care for our community and a commitment to service. We are honored to stand beside you—before, during, and after life’s unexpected moments.



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