With winter right around the corner, now is the time to start preparing for winter storms. Blizzards can be incredibly dangerous, so it’s crucial that your whole family is ready. To prepare for a winter storm, follow these tips.

Create a Family Plan Ahead of Time
Prior to the first storm of the season, make sure you create a family plan. Discuss what you will do if a blizzard hits your area.
You should also decide what you will do if you are not all together when the storm arrives.
- Make sure everyone knows how you will contact each other.
- Be sure you know how & where you will get together- meet at the light pole out front or at a neighbor's house.
- And know what to do if there is a serious emergency.
Talking things through is especially important if you have young children. Getting everyone on the same page can relieve a lot of stress and actually provide comfort knowing there is a firm plan in place.

Watch Your Local Weather Report
Keep your eye on the local weather reports. If the weather reporter says there’s a winter storm approaching, take them at their word and start preparing.
Three Storm Levels You Should Know
- Watch– Just as it says- keep an eye out for changes that can happen suddenly.
- Advisory– The in-between stage where forecasted weather will likely happen.
- Warning– Storm is here! Usually a more localized area and timeframe. Take precautions for serious weather.
Even if the storm doesn’t come, you will be prepared for the next time. After all, it is better to be safe and prepared than sorry.
Food to Have in Your Home to Prepare for Winter Storm
Ensure you have plenty of bottled water, food, and medical supplies, like this First Aid Kit
in your home at all times.
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) suggests having a three-day supply of water and food.
Some great nonperishable food options to have in your pantry include:
Take advantage of home delivery services, like Instacart! If you want to save $10 on your order, use code KPUGLIANO13F
You can also try these simple recipes to have on hand for storm or anytime.

Prepare Your Car for Winter Storm
You should also prepare your car to handle a winter storm just in case you need to leave your home or you get stuck in your car during the storm.
Winterize your car at the beginning of the season and have a mechanic run a full check of your vehicle. You should also fill your gas tank before the storm arrives.
Also, stock up your car with bottled water, nonperishable food, first aid kit
, blankets, a windshield scraper
, sand
, or cat litter
, and Hand & Foot Warmers
.

Prepare Your Home for Bad Weather
At the beginning of winter, you should ensure that your home is fully prepared with the essentials. This means:
Ensure your home has these survival essentials and that you know where they are so you are prepared for bad winter weather.
You should also have a plan for a backup heat source in case the power goes out. Find a heat source that is not reliant on the grid.

Have a lot of blankets on hand and consider purchasing coal or wood-burning stove
or a portable kerosene heater. You should also ensure you have a working fire extinguisher
on hand, just in case of an emergency.
If you have a Snowblower, make sure it has had its tune-up and is ready for when the winter storm arrives.
I have found this home service is invaluable when it comes to keeping household appliances and tools in good working condition.

Keep Your Phone Charged
Charge every cell phone and back-up battery pack in the household before the storm hits. This may be your last lifeline if the storm is really bad.
Once the snow begins, keep your phone use to a minimum so you will have power if an emergency occurs.
How to Keep Entertained During Storm
Before the storm arrives, prepare some options for entertainment.
Be sure to choose things that you will still be able to use even if the power goes out.
Here are a few great options:
- – Cards
- – Books
- – Board games
- – Puzzles
- – Laptops
and ipad
or Fire Tablets
(charge them ahead of time)
Remain Indoors Until Bad Weather is Over
Though it might seem like fun, it can be very dangerous to go outside during a blizzard.
With high winds, low temperatures, and white-out conditions, the danger is everywhere outside. To keep your family safe, make sure everyone stays inside until the worst of the storm passes.

Original post 1/3/18
Updated post 11/30/19
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