Are You Prepared for Winter Weather?

When it comes to winter weather, it’s best to be proactive. Regardless of what the weather predictions are, never underestimate or dismiss winter weather advisories, warnings, or watches. Take it seriously!

By having all of the supplies and items you need ahead of time, you’ll be ready no matter what the weather has in store.

OUTSIDE OF YOUR HOME

Can you and other visitors get in and out of your home safely? The following are key items to keep on hand in the event of snow, ice, or freezing rain on walkways, driveways, patios, and landings:

Snow shovel
Waterproof floor mats
De-icing compound
Salt or kitty litter

INSIDE OF YOUR HOME

Always be sure to have enough food and emergency supplies to last three to four days without power or help. Be sure to also keep an emergency kit.

Food & Related Supplies

Nonperishable food items (ex: canned meat, cereal, bread, peanut butter, etc.)
Water (at least 1 gallon/person/day)
Manual can opener
Disposable plates, cups, eating utensils, napkins
Pet food and additional water for pets

Emergency Supplies

First aid kit
Family/emergency contact information (written down)
Prescription medications/medical supplies (at least enough for 3-4 days)
Batteries
Battery powered-radio
Cell phone (fully charged) + Cell phone charger
Cold weather clothing + extra blankets

ON THE ROAD

One of the most dangerous places to be during a winter storm is on the roadways. If you have to drive during hazardous winter conditions, or if you find yourself caught outside during a winter storm event, know that road conditions can change in an instant. Don’t wait for winter to roll around to prepare yourself.

Winterize Your Vehicle!

Check your antifreeze
Keep up with regular oil changes
Check tires and spare tire(s) for proper inflation and tire tread
Keep your gas tank full (to avoid freezing water in the fuel line)
Make sure your vehicle’s battery is in good working condition

Keep the following in your vehicle at all times:

First aid kit
Cash
Cell phone charger
Bottled water
Flashlight + batteries
Blanket
Flares (or other reflective material in case of a break down)
Jumper cables
Ice scraper

During the winter, you may also want to store a small bag of sand or kitty litter in your trunk. The extra weight can provide better traction, and the contents can be use to prevent your tires from slipping.

Your Emergency Kit

You should ALWAYS keep a first aid kit in your home and in your vehicle. The size and shape of your emergency kit may vary, but at the minimum, it should include:

2 absorbent compress dressings (5 x 9 inches)
25 adhesive bandages (assorted sizes)
1 adhesive cloth tape (10 yards x 1 inch)
5 antibiotic ointment packets (approximately 1 gram)
5 antiseptic wipe packets
2 packets of aspirin (81 mg each)
1 blanket (space blanket)
1 breathing barrier (with one-way valve)
1 instant cold compress
2 pair of non-latex gloves (size: large)
2 hydrocortisone ointment packets (approximately 1 gram each)
Scissors
1 roller bandage (3 inches wide)
1 roller bandage (4 inches wide)
5 sterile gauze pads (3 x 3 inches)
5 sterile gauze pads (4 x 4 inches)
Oral thermometer (non-mercury/nonglass)
2 triangular bandages
Tweezers
First aid instruction booklet

If you are traveling by vehicle during the winter, it may be helpful to keep a small backpack with emergency items/supplies in case you have to abandon your vehicle.