Winter Weather Preparedness
Winter weather can strike with little warning. Being prepared starts before the forecast turns ugly. We've all seen the lines at the grocery store and the empty shelves where bread and milk used to be.
With a bit of early preparation, you can enjoy your next snow day (or week) with less anxiety and more enjoyment.
Get Your Home Ready Inside:
Winter weather could mean sheltering in place for a day or more - sometimes without power. Make sure you have the following on hand to make you more comfortable during the time you're snowed in:
- Food and water for several days - get these ahead of time to save you a trip to the busy grocery store. Water stores easily and non-perishable food will get you by for a few days.
- Alternate light sources - keep flashlights, batteries, candles and lanterns on hand. LED light sources are efficient and use less batteries.
- Alternate heat sources - if you're fortunate enough to have a fire place, keep plenty of firewood on hand. If you're not used to using your fireplace, be careful!
- Personal items and medications for all family members - including baby supplies.
- Entertainment - hey, you're going to be home for a day or two. Keep a good book or a few board games on hand to keep yourself occupied.
Get Your Home Ready Outside:
Winter weather often means a bit more work outside. You probably need to shovel your driveway and/or walk and you'll need to clear off your car before heading out. Keep a few things in stock in your garage to be ready:
- Buy your shovel early - shovels get harder to find when there is snow in the forecast. They're also cheaper in the early fall and spring.
- Have rock salt on hand - just buy a bag and keep it in a five gallon pail in your garage. Salt steps and walks to keep yourself and others from slipping.
- Shovel in moderation - Being prepared means having a plan. Unless you're accustomed to vigorous exercise you'll be better served to take it easy while shoveling. Rest often and keep up with the snow. Shoveling three times when it's three inches deep will likely be easier than shoveling nine inches at once.
- Keep a sweeper/scrapper on hand for your car - be sure to completely clear off your vehicle before attempting to drive.
Keep Your Car Ready:
Excessive snows can strand drivers with no options aside from those kept in the car. Keep these items in the trunk of your vehicle incase you end up having to stay in your car for longer than expected or you have to walk through snow to shelter:
- Layers of clothing - several non-cotton layers pack easily and will keep you warm if need be.
- Food/water for 24 hours.
- A pair of winter boots/socks - in case you get caught out with inappropriate footwear.
- Headlamp/flashlight - don't forget fresh batteries.
- Gloves and a winter hat.
Additional Winter Readiness Resources:
Winter Storm Preparedness from The American Red Cross
Winter Storm Resource from Ready.gov
Winter Weather Preparedness from Weather Underground
Winter Safety and Preparedness from The Weather Channel
