Winter weather has arrived. Here are some tips for navigating it safely

Now that traditional winter weather has arrived, the Des Plaines Fire Department is offering some tips for getting through the season safely.

To keep your home warm in a safe manner, make sure it’s properly insulated. You can also use caulk and weather stripping to keep out the cold.

If temperatures drop below freezing, open cabinet doors beneath sinks to keep pipes from freezing. If pipes do freeze, use a hair dryer ‒ not flame from a candle, lighter, torch or other source ‒ to thaw them.

Even if the weather seems safe now, gather important supplies in case you need to stay home for several days without electricity.

Install and test smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors, and have extra batteries for them ready.

Clearing snow can be a particularly hazardous activity, so be sure to dress warm, stay hydrated and take frequent breaks. Additionally, it’s less stressful to move small amounts of snow at a time.

Firefighters need access to hydrants during the winter months, too. If there’s one in front of your house, remove snow from a 3-foot radius around the hydrant to make it easier for firefighters to attach their lines.

These tips are on the fire department’s Facebook page. Learn more about winter weather safety and preparedness at ready.gov/winter-ready.