Des Moines, IA – With temperatures dropping and winter weather approaching across the Midwest, officials are reminding residents to finalize home winterization before snow and ice set in. The National Weather Service and Iowa Homeland Security and Emergency Management (HSEM) are using Winter Weather Awareness Day to urge homeowners to protect their homes — and wallets — from costly cold-weather damage.
According to the National Weather Service in La Crosse, homeowners should check caulking and weather stripping around doors and windows, clean out gutters, and ensure smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are working properly. It’s also essential to insulate or drain exposed pipes, inspect chimneys, and test snowblowers before the first major storm hits.
Iowa HSEM adds that now is the time to trim tree limbs at least three feet from homes, inspect roofs for leaks, and clean fireplaces inside and out to prevent hazards once heating systems are in full use. These proactive steps can lower energy costs, prevent frozen pipes, and reduce the risk of ice dams and water damage through the region’s harshest months.
Officials also emphasize helping neighbors who may need assistance preparing for winter — especially the elderly or those with limited mobility.
Residents can find more winter safety resources at weather.gov and ready.iowa.gov.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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