Winter has finally arrived across Maryland and our Dorsey Family Homescommunities. From frigid temperatures to possible snowstorms, we’re giving our homeowners a few tips to help winterize their homes as the cold winter season begins.

Blankets Galore

This is the easiest and most inexpensive way to keep warm during the colder months. From plush heavy blankets like thisfaux fur blanketfrom Amazon.com or this easy to useSerta Electricblanket with a variety of programmable heat settings. Perfect for snuggling up by the fireplace in yourDorseyhome!

Cold Weather Bedding

Keep your bedroom nice and cozy by switching out your lightweight summer linens for heavier cold weather sheets and comforters. Start by lining your mattress with theSunbeam Quilted Heated Mattress Padfrom Amazon.com. This easy to set up mattress pad is sure to keep you warm all through the night. Looking to add little extra warmth? Take a look at JCPenny’s wide variety of cold weather beddinghere.

Let the Sun In

There’s a common misconception when it comes to drawing your homes window curtains, drapes or blinds during the winter. Many believe that leaving your window curtains closed prevents cold air from seeping into your home. This may be true for the evenings, but it’s recommended that homeowners leave their window draping open during the daytime. No need to run your thermostat on while you’re at work, as this method allows the sunshine to warm your home naturally throughout the day.

Frozen Pipe Prevention

Maryland is known for it’s below freezing winters. Running water through your home’s pipes when it’s cold outside helpsprevent pipes from freezing. Protect your pipes(and pockets) this season by letting the cold water drip from the faucet served by exposed pipes.

Snow Day Kit

Start planning for your snow days before the storm arrives! Instead of rushing to the store to grab these essential items all at once, try prepping your kit by purchasing some of the supplies once a week during your usual grocery store run. Feel free to personalize your kit with snow day movies, games, food, and hot cocoa of course, but make sure the items listed below are included:

• Groceries, two weeks of water (15 gallons per person) and non-perishable food
• Ways to heat and light at least one room in your home that doesn’t depend on electricity
• Two weeks of pet and baby supplies (for homeowners with pets and infant children)
• Two weeks of important medications
• Gas for your car and a spare fuel can
• Bags of deicing salt
• Snow shovel