Preparing for a Winter Storm
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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