Although winter comes as no surprise, many of us don’t plan ahead for its arrival. If you prepare for the hazards of winter, you will be more likely to stay safe and healthy when temperatures start to fall.

Take these steps to keep your home safe during the winter months.

• Winterize your home.
• Install weather stripping, insulation and storm windows.
• Insulate water lines that run along exterior walls.
• Clean out gutters and repair roof leaks.
• Check your heating systems.
• Have your heating system serviced professionally to make sure that it is clean, working properly and ventilated to the outside.
• Inspect and clean fireplaces and chimneys.
• Install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Test batteries monthly.
• Have a safe alternate heating source and alternate fuels available.
• Protect your family from carbon monoxide by keeping grills and camp stoves out of the house, basement and garage, and by locating generators at least 20 feet from the house.

Don’t Forget to Prepare Your Car

• Get your car ready for cold weather use before winter arrives.
• Service the radiator and maintain antifreeze level.
• Check tire tread or, if necessary, replace tires with all-weather or snow tires.
• Keep your gas tank full to avoid ice in the tank and fuel lines.
• Use a wintertime formula in your windshield washer.
• Prepare a winter emergency kit to keep in your car in case you become stranded including blankets, food and water, booster cables, flares, tire pump, a bag of sand or cat litter for traction, flashlight, battery-powered radio, extra batteries, first aid kit and plastic bags for sanitation.

Equip in Advance for Emergencies

Be prepared for weather-related emergencies, including power outages.

• Stock food that needs no cooking or refrigeration and water stored in clean containers.
• Ensure that your cell phone is fully charged.
• When planning travel, be aware of current and forecast weather conditions.
• Keep an up-to-date emergency kit, including battery-operated devices, such as a flashlight, extra batteries, a first aid kit and extra medicine, baby items and cat litter or sand for icy walkways.

Take These Precautions Outdoors

Many people spend time outdoors in the winter working or enjoying winter sports. Outdoor activities can expose you to several safety hazards, but you can take these steps to prepare for them:

• Wear appropriate outdoor clothing: layers of light, warm clothing, mittens, hats, scarves and waterproof boots.
• Sprinkle cat litter or sand on icy patches.
• Be aware of the wind chill factor.
• Work slowly when doing outside chores.
• Take a buddy and an emergency kit when you are participating in outdoor recreation.
• Carry a cell phone.