The recent January storms that dumped up to six inches of snow across Metro Detroit served as a sharp reminder that winter in the Grosse Pointes demands respect. With wind chills dropping below zero and roads turning into ice rinks overnight, preparation stops being optional and starts being survival. Whether you weathered last week’s storm like a pro or found yourself scrambling, now’s the time to lock down your winter safety strategy for the rest of the season.
Stop Your Pipes From Becoming Expensive Problems
Frozen pipes cause thousands of dollars in damage when temperatures stay in the teens and twenties for days at a time. Set your thermostat to at least 55°F even when you’re not home, and open cabinet doors under sinks to let warm air reach pipes along exterior walls. Disconnect outdoor hoses before the next freeze, drain them completely, and wrap exposed pipes in foam insulation or heat tape.
Your heating system runs overtime during cold snaps, dramatically increasing the risk of carbon monoxide. Never heat your home with your oven or stove, and keep portable generators, camp stoves, and grills outdoors only. Install carbon monoxide detectors in bedrooms and common areas, then test them monthly. Space heaters should be placed on flat, stable surfaces at least 3 feet away from curtains, bedding, and foot traffic. Turn them off before sleeping or leaving home.
Check your attic insulation and seal window cracks with caulk or spray foam. These small fixes prevent cold air from sneaking in and keep your energy bills reasonable when the mercury drops.
Protect Your Health When It Gets Brutal Outside
Cold weather does more than freeze your car doors shut. Layer your clothing and cover all exposed skin when heading outside, especially during single-digit days. Hats, insulated gloves, and waterproof boots with good tread prevent frostbite and parking lot falls. Dress in removable layers so you can adjust if you start sweating, which actually makes you colder.
Boost your immune system with vitamin C– and D-rich foods, aim for 7 to 8 hours of sleep, and wash your hands frequently during flu season. Stay hydrated, even if you don’t feel thirsty. Physical activity keeps your circulation strong and your mood lifted through those gray February afternoons.
Looking for a home in the Grosse Pointes that’s ready to handle Michigan winters? I’d love to help you explore properties that offer both comfort and safety year-round. Reach out to me, David Petrouleas, to discuss homeownership opportunities in this lakeside community.
Drive Carefully And Pack Emergency Gear
Winter driving causes most seasonal accidents because people forget to adjust their speed. Increase your following distance to at least 5 seconds on snowy or icy roads. Check weather forecasts before leaving, and if conditions look dangerous, postpone your trip.
Keep an emergency kit in your vehicle with blankets, a flashlight, first aid supplies, jumper cables, non-perishable snacks, bottled water, and a charged portable battery. Add a snow brush, ice scraper, and compact shovel to your trunk. If you get stranded, stay inside your vehicle, where you’re safer than walking in a storm.
Check On Your Neighbors
The Grosse Pointes community shines during tough weather. Check on elderly neighbors, people living alone, or anyone who might need assistance during severe cold or snowstorms. Offer to pick up groceries, clear walkways, or simply make a phone call to confirm they’re okay. Watch for warning signs like piled-up mail, no indoor lights after dark, or pets left outside.
Sign up for local weather alerts, so you know when storms approach. Discover additional resources and community guides to help you thrive in the Grosse Pointes throughout every season. Close unused rooms to save heat, bring pets indoors, and keep your phone charged in case the power fails.
Winter safety isn’t about paranoia; it’s about smart preparation. Take these steps now, and you’ll spend more time enjoying the season and less time dealing with preventable disasters. Stay warm, stay alert, and stay safe out there.
Sources: oaklandcountyblog.com, citizenshospitals.com, davepetrouleasrealestategroup.com, nps.gov, discoverthegrossepointes.townsites.org
Header Image Source: Ilya Semenov on Unsplash
