Whether the local forecast predicts light flurries or a full-on blizzard, are you and your home prepared for inclement weather? Be stocked and ready before a storm is expected with these tips.
Snowstorm Preparation for Homeowners
- Make sure your contact information is up to date, and enroll to receive communications such as robocalls, texting, or emails if your community utilizes those services.
- Avoid frozen pipes when the temperature drops. If you plan to leave New York for the winter, leave your faucets open on a low drip and leave your cabinet doors open to allow the heat to circulate in your home. Additionally, set your thermostat to a minimum of 60 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Have your emergency contacts ready. This should include family, friends, your preferred plumber or electrician, doctors, and your community’s emergency contact information (your property manager, superintendent {if applicable}), and the management hotline: 1.800.684.4055.
- Check the local forecast. Additionally, set up your phone to receive important notifications prior to a storm. Register for local text notifications from New York-based services such as Notify NYC or NY Alert.
- Bring in furniture or large objects from outside that could get damaged by snow or high winds.
- Charge your phone, power bank(s), and other electronics in the event of any power outages caused by high wind and down trees.
- Stock your home with pantry items, water, and medication in case the roads are in poor condition during or after the storm. Additionally, plan to stock these items for pets too.
- Protect pets during inclement weather by bringing them inside before and during a snowstorm or blizzard. Additionally, remember to protect their paws from ice melt when taking them out for a walk and keep them from licking or ingesting the salt.
- Make sure your car ice scrapers are easily accessible when the roads are safe and clear. Do not make the dreaded mistake of having to dig through your ice-covered trunk during the first snowstorm of the season!
- Prepare your home with ice melt and shovels for areas like the front door or back patio. Additionally, ensure that the ice melt is not in “chunk” form, as consolidated ice melt is less effective.
- Never use your oven as a source of heat, as ovens can produce carbon monoxide in your home.
- Stay prepared all winter so that your household is not scrambling at the last minute before a storm.
Understanding Your Community’s Snow Removal Plan
Every Cooperative, Condominium, and Homeowner’s Association has different snow removal needs. For example, each community differs in its layout or number of parking spaces, sidewalks, and other common areas. Your property manager and board of directors may have hired a vendor to remove snow. Or the building’s superintendent may be responsible for snow removal. It is important to note that either way, management may only be responsible for maintaining common areas. Therefore, it is essential that homeowners, shareholders, and residents are also aware of their responsibilities.
Snow Removal Needs Can Vary Between Storms
Each snowstorm is different. Some are quick and have light snow accumulation. Other storms are persistent with heavy snow accumulation throughout the course of an entire day. In the second case, snow removal may be required multiple times throughout the day. If your community has hired an outside vendor, they likely have more than one community to shovel or plow during and after a storm. Also, note that parking areas and roads will start to be cleared after 2 inches have accumulated. Snow will be cleared as needed throughout a storm.
Snow Removal Takes Time
Please have patience with your snow removal vendor or your superintendent. Avoid roads and sidewalks until they are safe to navigate, especially if you are not required to leave your home for work or an emergency.
How to Prepare for After a Snowstorm
- Note the forecast, after the storm. Use extra caution on sidewalks and roads, especially If the temperature is below freezing after a storm. Remember to limit time outside in the extreme cold.
- Report any heat issues to your property manager.
- Just like during a storm, protect pets from ice melt by protecting their paws and avoiding ingestion.
- Keep kids off and away from snow banks.
- Check on your neighbors, especially seniors or anyone who is more vulnerable during or after a storm.
How to Contact Management
- In the event of a building-related emergency, after our business hours (Mon-Fri 9 AM-5 PM), call our emergency number: 1.800.684.4055. Always call 9-11 in the event of a life-threatening emergency first.
- Contact Us Online.
- Call Our Office: 631.293.2997.
- Ask management who your Property Manager is if you are not sure.
For Your Fridge:
In Case of Emergencies: Important Phone Numbers
Complete Your Snowstorm Preparation in Advance of Snowstorms and Inclement Weather
Staying prepared ahead of inclement weather will ensure that your home will be clear of potential hazards, damage, or safety emergencies. Additionally, it will bring peace of mind to your household so you can kick back and enjoy a cozy day at home during a storm. Stay safe and remember to stay off the roads during a snowstorm and be patient during snow removal efforts.
