Proper preparation can help to alleviate some of the challenges that are normally faced during the cold season. This will help you to concentrate on other aspects of your life, rather than dealing with the cold. Here are some steps that you should take when you are planning for the winter ahead in Fort Collins.
Keep your home warm by ensuring that your heating system is working efficiently at all times. You can do this by getting it serviced on a regular basis. If your air conditioning unit is old, consider replacing it with a newer model to ensure that you stay warm.
Stock lots of foods that will help you to stay warm. This includes lots of carbohydrates, such as potatoes, pasta and rice. These are energy giving foods that will provide you with warmth. Also, plan on taking lots of hot liquids, such as tea and coffee throughout the day. Stocking adequate food is advisable in case the weather gets too cold to go out shopping. Alternatively, have sites where you can order food online and have it delivered to your house.
Buy adequate clothing that will help to keep you warm. The best thing would be to wear several layers of clothes in preference to wearing one thick layer. This is because layer dressing provides better insulation as the different layers of clothes trap warm air close to the body. Also dress warmly when you are getting in to bed. Don’t forget some socks and a hat.
Stock up on accessories that will help you stay warm. This includes an electric blanket and a hot water bottle. Get your electric blanket serviced once every few years to make sure it is working well. You can get in bed with the hot water bottle to stay warm. However, either choose to use an electric bottle or a hot water bottle but not both at the same time.
You are highly likely to get some infectious diseases during the cold season, therefore it would be helpful if you had some home remedies available. This includes treatments for cold and flu. You can also get a flu jab. If you have prescriptions that you will need to fill, order them in plenty of time and don’t wait until the last minute in case the weather gets bad.
Be prepared in case there is a power blackout. This includes having a battery operated radio and flashlight. Also, have some spare batteries just in case the blackout lasts for a long time. Keep your phone and laptop fully charged at all times. You can use the battery power on these devices when there is no electricity.
Have the necessary contacts with you. This includes contacts of your close family members and friends. You can call and check on each other to make sure that everyone is okay. This is very important if one of you is in a vulnerable condition, for instance, they are sickly or elderly. Also, having the contact numbers of your utility companies easily available will prevent you from getting stuck when you need their services.