Living in North Carolina I never expected to be experiencing, let alone writing about winter preparation of property. However, I’ve seen North Carolina experience some severe winter weather in the course of the years I’ve lived here. Here are a few reminders to protect yourself:

• Turn off water to exterior hose bibs.
• Remove water hoses from bibs and release pressure.
• Let faucets drip where there might be sinks on exterior walls.
• Open up cabinet doors so that heat can circulate to these sink areas.
• Be prepared to contact your insurance agent in case of water damage.
• Keep interior temperatures between 68 & 72 degrees F. Your property and personal preference determine the exact temp.
• Dress in layers.
• Schedule a fall ‘winter maintenance’ appointment now. Beat the last minute rush and price increase.