It’s winter-time and if you live in an area prone to snowstorms, one is almost inevitably going to happen. We often take for granted seasonal changes without much thought about preparation.
As winter storms charge across the country they can leave a trail of inconvenience and sometimes, mayhem. Even a small snowstorm demands caution.
In addition to getting ready for 2014, there are ways to prepare for blizzards and storms to ensure your survival and well-being. These range from advanced preparation to understanding the situation, and having the right supplies to handle any circumstance.
Begin Preparing as Soon as Possible
You should prepare for a snowstorm before winter even arrives. Inspect your home for any issues which could cause problems later on. It is important to be sure your walls, attics and pipes are properly insulated and that rain gutters are cleared of any obstructions. Roof leaks can be a big problem under the weight of a snow mound and when the ice melts.
Another option is to hire a contractor. They are often trained to conduct an inspection for home winterization, so having them check for problem areas such as weak roofs is wise. With tools to determine structural strength and finding leak points, a contractor can save time and a lot of money down the road.
Also:
- Get a carbon monoxide detector. It is useful especially when you use a gas stove inside.
- Make sure your flashlight batteries are working.
- Check that there is enough food and water for at least a couple of days.
In the rare case that valuable properties such as cars and homes are damaged beyond repair, we don’t want to file for bankruptcy – we want to be financially insured and prepared as well.
Stock Up on Survival Supplies
Nobody anticipates the severity of one storm. Electricity, heat and telephone service can be cut off and you might not be able to leave for a while.
Here is a list of survival supplies to get beforehand so you will be prepared.
In the home:
- Flashlights
- Battery-powered weather radio, or a similar portable radio
- First aid supplies, plus medicinal supplies including prescriptions and over-the-counter remedies you commonly use.
- Extra food that does not need to be cooked or frozen. Canned food is best and high energy treats are most recommended.
- Back up heating sources, fire extinguishers and a crash course on fire safety knowledge.
For your car:
- Flashlight
- Blankets and sleeping bags, plus non-perishable food and a water container.
- A tool kit and resourceful items such as a shovel, windshield scraper, knife, a compass and tow rope.
- Extra clothes and boots
- A can for snow. Keep this with waterproof matches. It will give you a place to melt some snow and have water to drink.
And here’s a bonus tip; have a rechargeable blow dryer ready. Why a blow dryer? Imagine door handles or a refrigerator pull that gets frozen. With enough force, we may just snap it right off! Blow dryers are a great way to defrost parts that get a lot of wear and tear.
Learn About Weather Forecasts
Read up on the different weather terms and how forecasters issue watches and warnings. These are designed to inform the public on the severity of the storm and what conditions to expect, providing a tool for preparedness. A Winter Storm Watch means that you should expect tough conditions within a couple of days, while a warning means the storm is about to start and it is time to hunker down. If a Blizzard Warning goes out, snow with minimal visibility, high winds, deep drifts and deadly cold are almost certain.
A Winter Weather Advisory alerts of wintry conditions. This might simply mean the ground being slippery, which is dangerous to both pedestrians and unsuspecting drivers. Also keep abreast of frost or freeze warnings, as colder than normal temperatures can have unpredictable effects on you or to trees, plants, or crops.
Stock up on Winter Clothing
It is no fun when a cold snap strikes and you don’t have warm clothes to wear. Check your winter wardrobe in the fall or shop around for tightly woven, water-repellant outer garments. Get scarves, mittens and hats along with waterproof boots. Remember tips such as wearing layers of loose-fitting, warm clothing to stay insulated and avoid hypothermia.
You’ll also be able to remove layers if overheating or excessive perspiration becomes a concern.
Know What to Do If Away from Home
The ideal situation is to stay at home during a severe storm. Should the situation arise where you need to be outside, know what to do beforehand. If outside, you should know how to find shelter from high winds, stay dry and cover up. It also helps to read up on building a fire for heat and signaling.
Getting stuck in a car or truck during a blizzard can be deadly. During heavy snow, pull off the road, put on your hazard lights and stay inside. People quickly get disoriented during heavy snow. You can find heat by running the engine for about ten minutes every hour.
Safety tips include opening the window slightly to let carbon monoxide escape and periodically checking the exhaust pipe for blockages. When it gets really cold, huddle up with other occupants or find anything to cover yourself and stay warm. After the storm, let rescuers know you need help by turning on the dome light during evening hours, tying a red flag to the antenna or window, or raising the hood to signal a problem — but only raise the hood after the snow stops.
By preparing, stocking up, educating yourself, staying updated and knowing what to do in extreme circumstances, you can maximize the chances of getting through a major snowstorm unscathed.
About the author: Jesse Aaron is a content coordinator for 12 Keys Rehab and a social media marketing blogger.