When cold weather hits the Northwest, it doesn’t just bring frosty mornings — it can bring frozen pipes, roof leaks, and repair bills nobody wants. The trick is to get ahead of it. A little prep before the first freeze can keep your home safe and your family comfortable all season.

Why preparation matters

Winterizing isn’t about doing everything at once. It’s about tackling a few smart projects now so you’re not scrambling later. Checking your furnace, insulating pipes, and clearing gutters are quick weekend jobs that can prevent the most common winter headaches. Think of it as trading a Saturday afternoon for months of peace of mind.

Outdoor focus: Guarding against ice and water

Start outside. Disconnect hoses and cover faucets to keep pipes from freezing. Clean gutters and downspouts so rain and melting snow don’t back up into your roof. Clear storm drains to avoid flooding, and sprinkle de-icer on steps and walkways to cut down on slips. These simple steps protect your home and make it safer for everyone coming and going.

Indoor focus: Keeping pipes and heat flowing

Inside, the goal is warmth and circulation. Insulate exposed pipes, especially in garages or crawl spaces. On cold nights, open cabinet doors under sinks along exterior walls so warm air can reach them and let a trickle of water run to keep pipes moving. Don’t forget your furnace — a quick service and fresh filters keep it running smoothly. Heading out for the holidays? Leave the heat on low, but shut off the main water valve and drain the pipes so you don’t come home to a mess.

Holiday hazards: Decorating safely

Holiday lights add cheer, but they can also spark trouble. About one in four holiday fires start with electrical decorations. Switch to LED lights, use outdoor-rated cords outside, and keep connections dry. Never modify plugs, and always turn lights off when you’re asleep or away. Timers make it effortless.

Fire safety in the kitchen and beyond

Thanksgiving is prime time for cooking fires. Stay in the kitchen when frying or baking, keep towels and packaging away from burners, and if a grease fire starts, smother it with a lid — never water. As December rolls in, holiday trees become the next concern. Keep them three feet from fireplaces and heaters, water real trees daily, and unplug lights before bed.

About Pemco Insurance

Founded in and focused exclusively on serving the Pacific Northwest, Pemco Insurance has been helping communities worry less and live more for more than 75 years. As a mutual insurance company, Pemco is deeply committed to local neighborhoods, offering coverage designed for the Northwest lifestyle. From empowering families with information to prevent risks to providing award-winning service when the unexpected happens, Pemco stands alongside its customers every step of the way.

Explore home, auto, and renters insurance at pemco.com.

This article is sponsored by Pemco Insurance.