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Home Depot has tips and resources to keep you safe and warm when winter hits the hardest.

Winter weather can cause a number of problems for your home – from power outages to water damage inside and out, as well as the physical impact storms have on your home’s exterior.  After a storm hits, it is important to stay safe and keep warm. The Home Depot has the tips and resources to help you recover after the storm.STEP ONE Prepare

Ensure you are prepared for power loss and cold by creating a preparedness kit and securing important documents.

• Batteries, flashlights, generators and other products are core components in a severe weather kit you should have prepared in advance to a storms arrival, both in your car and in your home.

• Store a light, like the Energizer Fusion Folding Lantern somewhere you can access quickly in case you lose power. Also keep extra batteries, like Duracell Quantum AA, on hand as a backup for electronics around the home.

• Keep important items and documents out of harm’s way with fire rated and waterproof safes like the Sentry Fire Rated & Waterproof Chest.STEP TWO Repair Burst Pipes

Burst pipes can cause a host of problems, including the loss of water in your home. If you are unable to have burst pipes repaired immediately, there are several ways to temporarily resolve the problem.

• A piece of inner tube and some hose clamps can slow a leak until a permanent repair could be made. Wrap the pipe with the piece of rubber and clamp it in place. A piece of garden hose or radiator hose and some hose clamps can also work.

• Making small temporary repairs will help lessen the chance that the pipes will freeze again before you can get them permanently repaired.

• If you anticipate your pipes are close to freezing, or even bursting, thaw them by using towels soaked in hot water, a hairdryer or a space heater. Remember to not use electrical items if there is any water.STEP THREE Combat Moisture

With winter weather comes unwanted moisture, both inside your home and car. Take action to combat standing water to avoid mold and water damage.

• A multipurpose wet/dry vacuum, such as the RIDGID Wet/Dry Vac can help clear out water from around your pipes and water heater. Additionally, it can be used to combat snow and ice that may have crept into your home and car.STEP FOUR Seal in Heat

With a loss of electricity in freezing temperatures, sealing in heat becomes of the utmost importance. Consider purchasing a generator, such as the PowerStroke 5000 to ensure you have a back-up option if the power goes out.

• When selecting a location for a generator, remember portable generators can weigh over 200 pounds. Portable means they are movable, but wheels may or may not be present.

• Operate only in an outside location away from doors, windows, and vents.

• When using a generator, start with the higher wattage appliances first, and then proceed to lower wattage devices.STEP FIVE Remove Snow

Make sure you have the right equipment to combat snow and ice and maintain the outside of your home – from blowers to throwers to shovels, salt and sealants.

• For large projects like driveways and parking lots, snow blowers like the Ariens 28 Deluxe will help tackle the task.

• For harder surfaces and smaller yards, enlist the help of the Ryobi 40V Lithium Ion Snow Blower, which features fade-free power and easy handling.

• For walkways, a strong shovel like the True Temper Aluminum Combo Shovel will allow for nimble maneuvering,

• Use salt or sand on steps and driveways as a thawing agent. Avoid putting salt and de-icers near plants and grass which can be harmful. Add additional salt or sand after shoveling.

For more information visit your local Home Depot or their website at www.homedepot.com

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