Not use to snow & freezing temps? Here’s how to keep your home, car safe

Freezing temperatures and snow are moving across Florida this week, an unusual experience for many in the Sunshine State.

AAA has advice to help residents stay safe while protecting their homes and cars.

“Freezing temperatures can lead to costly repairs to your home, while snow and icy roads can raise the risk for Floridians who aren’t used to driving in these conditions,” said Mark Jenkins, spokesman from AAA. “AAA encourages residents to prepare their property, and drivers to follow the advice of local authorities and stay off the road if conditions are unsafe to drive.”

Home protection

According to AAA insurance reports, the average regional frozen pipe claim costs more than $11,000, though the amount can be higher depending on damage to personal property.

Water left standing in pipes when the temperature drops can cause them to burst.

The damage caused by the pipes as well as repair costs are covered by most stand home insurance policies as long as regular maintenance is performed.

What you can do

• Remove hoses from the exterior faucets.
• Let the faucets drip a little bit to prevent freezing pipes.
• Keep the bathroom and kitchen cabinet doors open to let warm air circulate around the pipes.
• Make sure you know where your water shutoff valve is, so that you can turn the water off in case of an emergency.
• Take photos of any damage and immediately contact your insurance provider.

Car advice

• Use an ice scraper to remove snow and ice from the car.
• Never warm up your car in a small enclosed space.
• Be prepared for possible car battery damage.
• Check your tire pressure.

Driving safety

• Check the weather before heading out and change your plans accordingly.
• Pack an emergency kit with the following items: cell phone car charger, first-aid kit, medicine, drinking water, non-perishable snacks, flashlight, ice scraper, blankets, hats, gloves, and coats.
• Increase your following distance to stay safe.
• Watch out for icy surfaces on bridges and intersections.
• Try to avoid braking on ice.
• Make sure you slow down, and move over so first responders, emergency vehicles, and tow truck operators can reach stranded motorists.
• Obey road closures.
• Treat traffic signal outages as a four-way stop.
• Expect reduced range on electric vehicles.

Stranded drivers

• Pull over as far way from traffic lanes as possible.
• Stay in the car.
• Don’t leave the car running to make gas last longer.