With winter here and temperatures on the decline, there are a few steps you can take to insure that you keep your family safe for the winter. Being prepared for emergencies is key year round, but during the winter months the importance increases because of the cold.

These steps can can help you in the event of an emergency:

1. Install Carbon Monoxide detectors near all sleeping areas of your home. CO is an odorless, colorless lethal gas. Purchase a detector with a battery backup for use in power outages.

2. Install smoke detectors in your home. A detector in each room (above the door) and in hallways every twelve feet is recommended. “Vocal” smoke detectors can be purchased so Mom or Dad can record voice instructions which helps wake the little one’s and also provides comfort with the parents voice and instruction.

3. Buy multi purpose fire extinguishers for the kitchen, garage and second story of your home. Be sure to familiarize yourself with the different types of fire extinguishers (i.e. Class A,B,C and D for different types of fires) Always call 911 before you use a fire extinguisher.

4. Assemble, or purchase an emergency preparedness kit. My family went through the California 1994 Northridge earthquake, we quickly learned that we should have been more prepared. If you have ever been through something like this you know that you will NOT be able to get the things you need after a major earthquake, or other disaster.

5. Have an emergency plan, talk to your kids and explain what can happen, and discuss what the best course of action would be in any situation. Make sure you have a plan to contact each other if you are not together when a disaster strikes. Know your children’s school’s emergency plans.

6. Place Poison Control Numbers near your phone. It’s also important to know your children’s height and weight so the person on the phone can help you better.

7. Purchase a Fire Safety Ladder for each bedroom of your second story home.Fire Safety Ladder

8. Practice Fire/Emergency drills with your family and make sure everyone knows the plan (this can actually be fun, my Dad was big on these)

9. Make sure exit routes are unobstructed and that furniture is secured within these areas as well

10. Install emergency lights in outlets throughout home that will light when the power goes out. Also have flashlights by your bedside.

These are simple steps you can take to get the upper hand on dangerous situations. Perfect case scenario, you will never have to use any of this stuff, but in the event of an emergency, a little bit of preparation goes a long way. Empower your family with safety awareness and precautions and take peace of mind knowing your family is as safe as possible!