​Winter Weather Preparedness

Before winter weather, you want to make a plan and build an emergency kit for you, your family and your pets. Winter weather hazards to take into account include freezing temperatures, wind,  sleet, and snow. Remember to prepare your property  too! Consider what you need to prepare your home before a winter storm and suffer a power outage. Are you prepared to get stuck in extreme weather conditions if you have an extended daily commute? Look at the tips below to ensure you're winter weather prepared! 


Preparedness for People and Pets:

Keep your family and pets safe by planning before a disaster. Consider stocking and restocking 3-days' worth of the following items per person in conditions where power or water may not be accessible:

  • Personal Hygiene Kits (baby wipes, etc.)
  • Food - non-perishable and non-heated
  • Water - 1 gallon per day- per person
  • Medication
  • Assistive Devices - wheelchairs, oxygen, etc. (backup power, spares)
  • Batteries/power banks
  • First aid kit and tools
  • Paper/plastic dishware, cleaning supplies/trash bags
  • Winter Weather Clothing (warm layers)
  • Cash
  • Important documents
  • Pets should also have a supply of food and water for three days, vet and chip records, and kennel/ bedding, leash, and collar

Home Safety:

Prepare your homes for severe winter weather. Consider purchasing a backup generator (must be kept outside in ventilated areas) in the event of power outages. Consider having the following additional items:

  • Space Heaters (must be kept away from flammable items)
  • Wrap your pipes and drip faucets
  • Trap heat by blocking door and window drafts with blankets or towels
  • Install Carbon monoxide and fire detectors (replace batteries on existing detectors)

Power Outages:

Have you planned for power and water outages during winter weather? Consider the following safety tips:

  • Turn off all electronics 
    • Keep one light on so you're alerted when power is restored
  • Keep the refrigerator/freezer closed
    • Refrigerator items are good for 4 hours
    • Freezer items are good for 24 hours
    • Throw out all warm food
  • Have alternate ways to keep medicine cold
  • Consider how to keep assistive devices running - like spare batteries/power packs
  • Use flashlights or glowsticks for alternate light instead of candles

Warnings:

Do you have backup methods for receiving information during severe winter weather, including during a power outage? Consider purchasing a hand- cranked or battery-operated NOAA weather radio. Check out the addtional resources and sign-up for the following emergency alerts and warnings:

Road Safety:

Prepare your vehicle for severe winter weather. Ensure your vehicle is up to date on maintenance and winter or all-weather tires. If you must travel during severe weather, slow down and keep extra distance between cars. Pump brakes to slow down instead of slamming on the brakes. Turn into a skid if you slide, and inform an emergency contact of your route. Consider having the following emergency kits in your vehicle:

  • Water
  • Snacks
  • Power bank
  • Blankets
  • Jumper cables
  • Emergency signals
  • De-Icers (Sand, rock salt, or chemical ice melt)

To learn more about Winter Weather Preparedness, visit: