How do you prepare for winter? Many people have their furnaces cleaned and checked during the fall to make sure they’re in good working order for the colder months ahead.
Some folks winterize their vehicles. They make sure their oil changes and tire rotations are up to date. And that their tires have adequate tread and are properly inflated. They also top off their fluids, especially windshield solution.
Those with fireplaces make sure there is plenty of wood ready outside their home. And well covered to keep it dry.
But here’s what far too many people forget as winter approaches. Making sure they have enough clean water stockpiled.
Winter weather compromises water quality
Why is that necessary during a season of the year when thirst is less of a factor than during the summer?
Winter weather can negatively affect the quality and quantity of water coming out of your faucets.
Whether it’s heavy rains that cause flooding. Or frigid temperatures that freeze water pipes. Winter weather can wreak havoc on water we take for granted.
Municipal water systems can fail to keep your water flowing and safe during the winter. Due to contaminations caused by flooding. And by pipes freezing outside and inside your home.
And this can be especially true for folks who live in remote areas. They are seldom at the top of the priority list when it comes to fixing issues.
Stockpile and filter your water
The answer to potential water problems during the winter is a simple, two-step process. First, stockpile as much water as possible this fall.
Second, use reliable filtration tools to keep your stockpiled water cleaner and safer. Those tools can also be used to filter water you get through your taps or other sources during the winter. Weather may have compromised it.
You don’t want to find yourself without clean water during the dead of winter. It’s likely to cause panic in your household.
Having cleaner and safer water stockpiled – plus a way to filter other water you obtain during the winter – will eliminate the panic. And replace it with peace of mind.
Snowmelt, salt & sand pose a threat
Now you may think, that’s all well and good, but I’ll take my chances. Previous winter weather has not compromised my water.
You could be right. You may experience a mild winter that poses no threat to your water supply.
But what if a city water main breaks down? It has happened many times. And it causes water outages that can last a while.
What about snowmelt that does not get absorbed into the ground? It can run off into storm drains, nearby bodies of water, and your well. And can carry a number of pollutants including animal waste.
And what about runoff from salt and sand? Many cities pour tons of salt onto streets during the winter. Others use sand for flooding issues. Runoff from salt and sand can pollute your water. Including runoff from facilities where those items are stored.
Drink up… with confidence
Wouldn’t you rather be safe than sorry? Especially when it comes to something as important as cleaner and safer water during the winter months?
We may not experience as much thirst during winter months. But it’s important to stay hydrated when the weather turns cold.
Drinking enough water during the winter helps keep you warmer. As well as healthier and comfortable.
You want to make sure the water being consumed by you and your household is of the highest quality possible. No matter what the weather is like outside.