KENTUCKY — Hardware stores across central Kentucky are seeing a surge in demand for winter weather supplies ahead of a predicted snowstorm this weekend.
At Chevy Chase Hardware in Lexington, generators are among the first items customers ask about when storms are forecast, said owner Tad Dunn. Firewood and other items to stay warm are also expected to sell quickly.
“Try to get ahead of it as best you can,” Dunn said. He added that stores rely on experience to anticipate community needs, noting that many people wait until the last minute, creating lines for ice melt and other essentials.
At Main Street Hardware in Versailles, heating products like pipe warmers are in high demand. Store Manager Christopher Jones said most protective supplies cost $5–$10, but customers shouldn’t rely on a single solution to stay warm.
“Heat tape is used to keep your pipes circulating water, not freezing up. It’s a good idea to read the handling instructions,” Jones said.
Safety first
Jones emphasized taking additional precautions even when using heating products.
“I would definitely still keep my water dripping at night,” he said, adding that generators and heaters should be used carefully. “It doesn’t want to be your primary source of heating, but it is a good way to supplement heat.”
Ice melt could be particularly important this weekend, as colder temperatures may keep snow on the ground longer. “This right here will work down to negative 15-degree temperatures,” Jones said.
He advised customers to watch instruction videos when unsure about product use, noting that an extra five minutes of preparation could save lives.
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