Are you a homeowner in Oxon Hill, MD? Whether you’re new to the area or a long-time resident, it never hurts to have a refresher on winter home safety in Oxon Hill.
After all, winters in Oxon Hill can be harsh, with evenings dipping below freezing and regular snowstorms. It’s crucial to ensure your home is ready to weather the cold.
More than just keeping your home warm, though, it’s important to keep yourself and your family warm, too.
To help, we’re sharing our tips on keeping your home warm during the winter season as well as how to keep yourself safe, too. Let’s dive into the essentials of winter home safety in Oxon Hill.
What Winters Are Like In Oxon Hill
Oxon Hill, MD, boasts a rich history that dates back to the 18th century. The area was named after the colonial manor home of Thomas Addison, Oxon Hill Manor, which was eventually replaced by a large neo-Georgian-style home in 1929.
Today, Oxon Hill Manor is a cultural hub and a sought-after venue for weddings and special events. The community is known for its historic sites, including the Butler House, Oxon Cove Park, and St. Ignatius Church, all listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Through that rich history, the folks of Oxon Hill have dealt with freezing winter weather, so before we delve into winter home safety tips, let’s understand what winters are like in Oxon Hill.
The average weather in Oxon Hill during the winter months can be quite challenging:
- January: Average high of 43°F, low of 27°F, with 7 days of precipitation.
- February: Average high of 46°F, low of 28°F, with 7 days of precipitation.
- March: Average high of 56°F, low of 35°F, with 7 days of precipitation.
Oxon Hill experiences a mix of cold temperatures and precipitation, which can result in various winter storms, including snow, sleet, and freezing rain.
Staying Safe Indoors In The Winter
Now that we’ve discussed the climate in Oxon Hill and how to prepare for winter, let’s focus on staying safe indoors during the chilly months.
How to Heat Your Home Safely
- Ensure your heating system is well-maintained. If it’s time for a tune-up, don’t hesitate to get in touch with Dick’s HVAC!
- Use space heaters with caution and keep them away from flammable materials
- Install carbon monoxide detectors to prevent CO poisoning
Lighting Your Home Safely in Case of Power Outage
- Avoid using candles; opt for battery-powered LED lights. If you are going to use candles, make sure to never leave them unattended, and to blow them out before going to sleep.
- Have flashlights and extra batteries on hand
- Generators should be used outdoors and properly ventilated
Conserving Heat
- Seal drafts around windows and doors
- Use curtains to keep warmth in and cold out
- Set your thermostat to a comfortable but energy-efficient temperature
Keeping a Water Supply
- In case of frozen pipes, have bottled water available
- Let faucets drip to prevent freezing
- Insulate pipes in unheated areas of your home
What to Eat or Drink
- Consume warm, hearty foods and hot beverages to stay warm
- Avoid excessive alcohol or caffeine, as they can lead to loss of body heat
Keeping Family Members Warm
As temperatures drop, it’s essential to ensure everyone in your family stays warm. Here’s how to keep both the youngest and oldest members comfortable.
For babies:
- Dress infants in layers
- Use warm blankets and hats
- Maintain a warm room temperature
For older adults:
- Layer clothing for extra warmth
- Ensure they have access to warm beverages
- Check on elderly relatives or neighbors regularly
Staying Safe Outdoors
While staying indoors is preferable during harsh winters, there will still come times for us to go outside. Here are some tips on staying safe and comfortable in the cold.
Tips on Layers
- Wear insulated, waterproof boots
- Protect extremities with gloves, hats, and scarves
- Start with a moisture-wicking base layer
- Add an insulating layer for warmth
- Finish with a waterproof, windproof outer layer
- Avoid wet clothing, as it reduces insulation
- Remove excess layers if you start sweating
Watch Out for Frostbite and Hypothermia
Frostbite and hypothermia are serious cold-weather conditions. Understanding the signs of cold-weather conditions like frostbite and hypothermia is vital.
Let’s learn how to recognize and respond to these potentially dangerous situations. Watch for these signs:
Frostbite
- Numbness or tingling in extremities
- Pale or hardened skin
- Pain or swelling upon rewarming
Hypothermia
- Shivering and confusion
- Slurred speech and drowsiness
- Weak pulse and slow breathing
In the event that you or someone you’re with shows signs of frostbite or hypothermia, it’s crucial to act swiftly. Move to a warm place, remove wet clothing, and gently warm the affected areas.
Do not use hot water, a heating pad, or a heating lamp for this purpose, as it can cause burns. Instead, use warm water or body heat to gradually restore warmth. Seek medical attention immediately, as these conditions can lead to severe complications if left untreated.
How Dick’s Keeps Your Home Warm During The Winter
At Dick’s Air Conditioning & Heating, we understand the importance of winter home safety during Oxon Hill’s winters.
Our expert team offers heating installation services that ensure your home stays cozy all season long:
- Modern, energy-efficient furnace or heat pump installation
- Perfect sizing to meet your home’s demands
- Whisper-quiet operation for your comfort
- Comprehensive safety features for peace of mind
- Reliable performance year after year
Call Dick’s HVAC To Get Your Home’s Heating Winter-Ready
Winter’s coming up quick here in Oxon Hill. Before you get the sled out of storage, prepare your home for the cold season with the help of Dick’s Air Conditioning & Heating. We’re here to provide top-notch service and keep your home warm and safe all winter long.
Your comfort and safety are our priorities. Contact us at 240-766-3497 to discuss your heating and HVAC needs, or click here to send us a message.