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Preparing for a Winter Storm

Winter storm photo

January 20, 2016

Winter has finally arrived, and as many of you may have heard there might be a big storm heading towards us this weekend. The American Red Cross have created a winter storm safety checklist to help be prepared for a winter storm.

What should I do?

  • Dress in several layers
  • Wear waterproof, insulated boots to keep your feet warm and dry and to maintain your footing in ice and snow.
  • Minimize travel if possible
  • Listen to a NOAA Weather Radio or other local news channels for weather information and alerts.
  • Fill up your gas tank before the storm, this will keep the fuel line from freezing.
  • Make sure your home is insulated, for tips check out our recent blog post on how to “Winterize Your Home.”
  • Make sure you received your yearly maintenance on your heater, during a snow storm is the worst time for your heater to stop working. Call us to schedule a tune-up!
  • All fuel-burning equipment should be vented to the outside and kept clear.
  • Pick up any medications you may need  before the storm in case you get snowed in.

What supplies do I need?

  • Water-at least a three day supply (about one gallon per person per day)
  • Food-at least a 3-day supply of non-perishable, easy-to prepare food
  • Flashlights
  • Battery-powered or hand-crank radio
  • Extra Batteries
  • First aid kits
  • Cell phone with chargers
  • Family and emergency contact information
  • Extra cash
  • Baby supplies (if applicable)
  • Pet supplies (if applicable)
  • Tool/supplies for securing your home
  • Sand/rock salt or non-clumping kitty litter to make walkways and steps less slippery
  • Warm coats, gloves, mittens, hats, boot and extra blankets for all family members
  • Ample alternate heating methods such as fireplaces or wood or coal-burning stoves

What do I do after a storm?

  • Go to a designated public shelter if your home loses power or heat during periods of extreme cold.
  • Avoid driving when conditions include sleet, freezing rain or drizzle, snow or dense fog.
  • Protect yourself from frostbite and hypothermia by wearing warm, loose-fitting light weight clothes with several layers. Stay indoors as much as possible.
  • Try to help people who may need assistance such as the elderly people living alone or people with disabilities and children.
  • Do not keep your animals outside during a snow storm of after, if it is too cold outside for you, it’s too cold for your pets as well!

Carbon Monoxide Warnings

  • Never use a generator, grill, camp stove or other gasoline, propane, natural gas or charcoal-burning devices inside a home, garage, basement, crawlspace or any partially closed area. Locate unit away from doors, windows and vents that could allow carbon monoxide to come indoors.
  • The primary hazards to avoid when using alternate sources for electricity, heating or cooking are carbon monoxide poisoning, electric shock and fire.

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