How to Prepare for Winter Storm- The Ultimate Guide!

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. 

Three Storm Levels You Should Know

1. Watch– Just as it says- keep an eye out for changes that can happen suddenly.
2. Advisory– The in-between stage where forecasted weather will likely happen. 
3. 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.

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:

• cereal
• dried fruit
• canned vegetables
• crackers
• granola/protein bars
• peanut butter

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.

• Flashlights
• Batteries
• Candles
• Matches/Lighter
• Blankets
• Shovels
• Ice Melt/Sand
• Transistor Radio

Ensure your home has these survival essentials and that you know where they are so you are prepared for bad winter weather.

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. 

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)

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.