Sure, there’s a certain “cozy” element to sitting by a warm fire place or in a well heated room with a good book while a snow storm rages outside. But what if, among other things, you find yourself in the middle of a dangerous blizzard with a shortage of heating oil? You can keep your family safe with emergency heating oil delivery from Princeton Fuel Oil.
Our technicians have put together a few key tips for staying safe during the next New Jersey winter blizzard.
1. PLANNING
It’s always best to plan ahead. If the weather forecast calls for heavy snowfall, make the necessary preparations and take the necessary precautions. But sometimes the weather does not cooperate with our best intentions. Blizzards can hit suddenly and without warning. That’s why it’s best to maintain a constant supply of non-perishable foods and lots of water. Experts recommend to stock up on a week’s worth of food and supplies including water, canned foods or foods that don’t require cooking, non-electric can opener, baby food, prescription medications and a flashlight.
2. BUNDLE UP
The simplest advice is to stay indoors. Remember that good book by the cozy warm hearth? But sometimes, people feel compelled to go outside. To “enjoy the blizzard and build a snowman.” Okay, if we can’t convince you to avoid the compulsion to go outside, at the very least bundle up in at least three layers of clothing, and remain hyper-alert to the signs of hypothermia. They include body temperature below 95 degrees; uncontrolled shivering; pale skin; blue fingertips; dizziness; shortness of breath; disorientation.
3. DON’T DRIVE
Did we mention stay indoors? If that advice seems too simplistic, at least don’t get in your car. Snow and icy road conditions are not friends of the driver, and getting in an accident or becoming stranded are real possibilities. If you must drive, have emergency supplies, warm clothes and water on hand.
4. AVOID EXERTION
Let’s say the blizzard has piled a large degree of snow in front of your house, and you really need to walk the dog. You might think that a quick snow shoveling effort will create a sufficient path. But the bitter cold can have a swift impact on the way your body and heart process the cold – without you realizing it. If Fido absolutely can’t wait, dress warmly, move slowly, and take breaks.
5. FUEL UP
As we mentioned at the beginning, getting a jump on the blizzard is highly recommended, especially as it relates to your oil heater – a prime ally in surviving any blizzard. If you do find yourself in a bind, trust in PFO emergency heating oil delivery 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. It’s also advisable to check the condition of your oil heater before the blizzard hits.
Blizzards may be a rare occurrence, but their danger cannot be diminished. For more tips and suggestions on how to survive them, feel free to contact us today.