Michigan winters are notorious for their biting cold and heavy snowfalls, and a hard freeze can only make the challenges of living in the Great Lakes State worse.

That is why proper preparation is key to protecting your home, vehicle, and health during these freezing conditions.

Here are essential tips for Michigan residents to get ready for a hard freeze.

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⬇️ READ BELOW: Stock Up on These Winter Essentials Before It Snows ⬇️

From Frozen Pipes To Drafty Doors: Simple Solutions For Michigan’s Hard Freeze

Protect Your Pipes

Frozen pipes can burst, which could lead to very costly repairs. If you are like me, you want to avoid random expensive repairs as much as possible.

To prevent this, you can insulate the exposed pipes in unheated areas like basements, crawl spaces, and garages.

If you let your faucets drip slightly, it will help to keep water moving. Plus, if you open cabinet doors under sinks, it will allow warm air to circulate.

Check Your Heating System

Besides protecting your pipes, this is one of the most important things to check before a winter freeze.

Make sure your furnace or heating system is in optimal condition. Replace any air filters, schedule a maintenance check, and consider having a backup heat source, such as a portable space heater or fireplace, in case of power outages.

Also, be sure to test all of your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors since heating systems can pose risks if not properly maintained.

Seal Drafts

This is a step that was new for me this year. If you have drafty doors or windows in your home or apartment, here are a few things you can do to fix that.

You can use weather stripping, caulking, or draft stoppers to keep cold air out and warm air in.

Insulating your home not only keeps you warm but also reduces energy costs. You know how I feel about saving money!

Prepare Your Vehicle

Cold weather can be tough on cars.

So, check your battery, antifreeze levels, and tires for proper tread and pressure. Always keep an emergency kit in your vehicle, including blankets, a flashlight, jumper cables, a first-aid kit, and non-perishable snacks.

Lastly, before you pull off, make sure your vehicle has a few minutes to heat up for your drive.

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Stock Up on Essentials

Now, when I say stock up, I do not mean buying up all of the eggs in Meijer. Someone else needs to eat too. It is not just about you, love.

⬇️ READ BELOW: 10 Must-Have Items To Keep In Your Car This Winter Just In Case ⬇️

Be sure you have enough food, water, and medication to last at least a few days.

Don’t forget salt or sand for the icy walkways, a snow shovel, and fuel for generators or fireplaces.

Stay Informed

Monitor local weather forecasts and sign up for emergency alerts from your local news stations and radio stations, including ours!

Being aware of incoming conditions can help you take action ahead of time.

By taking these proactive steps, you and your loved ones can stay safe, warm, and prepared during a hard freeze.

Stock Up on These Winter Essentials Before It Snows

Winter is coming! Before you get caught with three feet of snow and no snowsuit, make sure that you have the essentials to get thru this winter and stay warm!
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Gallery Credit: ASHLEY SOLLARS

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10 Must-Have Items To Keep In Your Car This Winter Just In Case

You never know when you might find yourself stranded on the side of the road during the cold winter months, and these ten items could make all the difference. They might even save your life.
*As Amazon Affiliates we earn on qualifying purchases.* 

Gallery Credit: Kat Mykals

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