It becomes more and more clear that winter is approaching as the leaves change and the temperature drops. It’s time to start preparing your apartment in 55 plus communities in Naples, FL for the next cold and snowy days if you are their caregiver.
For many, the colder weather is here to stay for the upcoming few months, therefore it’s important to prepare your house for your health and wellbeing. By exercising caution, you may lessen your risk of falling and spend the entire season warm and comfortable at home. The following steps will help you prepare for the winter:
Inspecting the Furnace
One of the most significant winter preparation duties is this. It’s crucial to get the senior’s furnace checked by a heating expert for reasons other than just making sure it’s ready to heat the house.
An examination of the heating system will also reveal any furnace leaks that can allow carbon monoxide into the house. The Poison Control Center reports that exposure to carbon monoxide causes 15,000 trips to the ER every year and an average of 439 fatalities. The majority of those are seniors.
Check the Carbon Monoxide and Smoke Detectors
Checking that the smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are properly operational is another item to tick off your winter safety checklist. According to experts, every level of the house needs to have a battery-operated carbon monoxide detector.
It has been demonstrated that having correctly fitted and operational smoke detectors in the home save lives. They are particularly crucial for senior citizens whose mobility issues may limit their capacity to flee swiftly.
Drain and Turn Off Outdoor Water Faucets
It’s more than just a hassle when a frozen pipe bursts on a chilly day. It may also result in harm to the home or its surroundings. Most houses have one or two exterior faucets at the very least. Before the first freeze, drain the faucet, disconnect the hoses, and shut off the water.
Cleaning the Gutters
In winter, ice jams can develop when leaves accumulate in gutters. This prevents water from flowing down the gutters, which increases the likelihood that water may enter the house or basement.
Create a Strategy For Removing Snow and Ice
For older persons, falls are the main cause of disability, but clearing snowy walkways can be dangerous as well. Plan how you and your senior loved one will remove snow and ice from the walkways before it starts to snow.
Stock Up on Necessities
Don’t wait until the first snowfall is predicted before going to the shop to get necessities. Stock up right away. Nonperishable items (such as peanut butter, crackers, and canned meats) and bottled water should be in your winter storm pantry.
It’s also a good idea to have additional batteries, blankets, flashlights, a battery-powered mobile phone charger, a can opener, and an emergency weather radio.
Be Ready in Case of an Emergency
The severity of winter storms might result in a power outage. The CDC suggested the following tips to assist you in always staying safe in an emergency:
- Always keep a cell phone well charged.
- Always have canned, non-perishable foods that don’t require cooking in the house.
- Keep additional blankets somewhere accessible.
- Include a weather radio, flashlight, extra batteries, and other essentials in your emergency bag.
All winter long, you can keep safe and toasty by following these instructions. If keeping your own home over the winter has become difficult, it may be time to consider moving into an assisted living community. Learn about the senior living programs and senior apartment options available at Discovery Village At Naples by reaching out to us on 239.243.0145.
