Winter Storm Preparation
Check the forecast
When a winter storm is a forecast, check the National Weather Service website or your local news to find out what type of storm is expected, when it is expected to begin and end, and how much snow or ice is expected. This will help you plan your activities and know what to expect.
Stock up on supplies
Before a winter storm hits, stock up on supplies in case you lose power or are unable to leave your home for an extended period of time. Here are some items to keep on hand:
-Non-perishable food items such as canned goods, dry cereal, peanut butter, and jelly
-A manual can opener if your canned goods don’t have pop-top lids
-A stash of water bottles or jugs filled with water (At least 1 gallon per person, per day)
-A first-aid kit
-Blankets and extra warm clothing
-A fully stocked medicine cabinet including any prescription medications you or your family take
-A generator if you rely on power for medical reasons
Create an emergency plan
Before a winter storm hits, sit down with your family and talk about what to do if a winter storm strikes. Agree on a safe place to meet, and plan how to get in touch with each other if you’re separated. Choose an out-of-town friend or relative as your family’s emergency contact.
Make sure everyone in your household knows how to turn off the water at the main shutoff valve in case pipes freeze and burst. Know where the main electrical switch is located, and make sure everyone knows how to turn it off in an emergency. Keep a list of phone numbers for utility companies handy.
If you have young children, make sure they know what to do if they’re home alone during a winter storm. Go over basic safety rules, such as not opening the door for strangers, not going outside unless it’s absolutely necessary, and not using appliances or candles if the power goes out.
During the Storm
Winter storms can be extremely dangerous. It is important to know what to do and what not to do during a winter storm. This will help ensure your safety and the safety of those around you. Some of the things you should not do during a winter storm include:
Stay indoors
During a winter storm, it is important to stay indoors as much as possible. If you must go outside, dress in layers of loose-fitting, warm clothing. Wear a hat, mittens or gloves, and a scarf to cover your mouth. Stay dry and out of the wind as much as possible.
Keep warm
Wear layers of clothing to stay warm. Remove wet clothing promptly and dry yourself.
Wear a hat or other head covering to prevent heat loss. Cover your mouth with a scarf to protect your lungs from cold air.
Gloves and socks are also important, as extremities are especially vulnerable to frostbite. If you can’t keep your whole body warm, focus on keeping your trunk warm.
Check on your neighbors
When bad weather is on the way, it’s important to think about your neighbors – especially if they are elderly or have young children. Make sure they have everything they need to weather the storm and check on them regularly to make sure they are doing alright.
After the Storm
Even though the winter storm has passed, there are still things that you should not do. For example, you should not go outside if the power is still out. You also should not start using your devices right away because they could overheat.
Check for damage
Once the storm has passed, it is important to survey your property for any damage that may have occurred. This can be done by walking around your property or using a ladder if necessary to check the roof, gutters, and downspouts. If you see any damage, it is important to take action to prevent any further damage from occurring. For example, if you see a broken window, you should cover it with a piece of plywood or plastic to prevent water from entering your home.
Clear sidewalks and driveways
It is important to clear sidewalks and driveways of snow and ice so that people can walk safely. It is also important to clear a path to any fire hydrants near your home so that emergency vehicles can easily access them.
Help those in need
While it is always important to help those in need, it is especially important to do so during and after a winter storm. There are many ways that you can help, but here are a few of the most important things to keep in mind:
- Check on your neighbors, particularly those who are elderly or have special needs. Make sure they have everything they need to weather the storm safely.
- If you have a generator, make sure it is properly ventilated to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning.
- Do not try to drive in blizzard conditions. If you must travel, let someone know your destination and the estimated time of arrival, and check the forecast and road conditions before you go.
- Never use a stovetop or oven to heat your home. This can lead to fires or carbon monoxide poisoning.