HOW TO PREPARE FOR SEVERE WINTER WEATHER

With winter just around the corner, we all need to make sure we are prepared for any possible severe winter storm.   We are fortunate to live in an area that does not get severe winter weather but there is no guarantee we won’t.

It is best to prepare for severe winter weather before a storm actually heads your way.  A few basic things you can do to take the stress and worry out of winter weather are:

·        Store bottled water and food that does not require cooking in case of a power outage.  Some ideas are tuna, cereal, canned or dried fruit, crackers, nuts, peanut butter and jelly.  Remember to store things your family will eat.

·        Have sand or rock salt to make driveways and sidewalks safer.  Make sure your snow shovel or other snow removal equipment is easy to get to and in good working order.

·        If you have a fireplace, make sure you have wood that is in a dry, easy to access location.

    If you have a gas grill, make sure you have a full propane tank.  It may be possible to cook on your grill once the storm lets up.  If you have a generator, make sure you have fuel and that it works properly.  Only use a generator outdoors.  Keep a fire extinguisher on hand.

·        Learn to shut of your water main and gas line in case there is a problem.

·        Make a winter emergency kit for your car.  Include:  window scraper, small broom, flashlight, blanket, battery operated radio, snacks that provide energy, water, jumper cables, small shovel, sand or cat litter for tire traction, hat, gloves, extra socks, first aid kit and a piece of fluorescent fabric to use as a distress flag.

·        If you have a baby or someone that requires medication, make sure you have plenty of those extra things you will need on hand.

During a storm, it is important to remain positive and use good judgment.

 

·        Have a battery operated radio so you can listen to weather reports.

·        Dress in layers of loose, lightweight warm clothing.  Your coat should be somewhat water repellent.  Wear mittens, they will keep your fingers warmer than gloves.  Wear a hat and scarf.  Use the scarf to cover your mouth.  This will protect your lungs.  KEEP DRY.  Change wet clothes as quickly as possible to help keep from losing body heat.

·        Avoid overexertion when shoveling snow.

·        Drive only when absolutely necessary.

·        If your power is out.  Close off all unnecessary rooms and stay in one main area.  Eat regularly and drink plenty of fluids.

·        Don’t forget about your solar lawn lights.  These can be left out during the day and brought in a night.  Several together can give off a good amount of light.

·        Have puzzles, games, books or any other light activity you can do while you are homebound.  Turn this into an opportunity to relax or make it an adventure.

·        As tempting as it is to snuggle down and sleep, it is important to move around occasionally.  This will help you keep warm and keep you alert.

·        Have plenty of blankets.

Hopefully we will not have to experience any really severe winter weather.  But being prepared will help in any storm and will give great peace of mind.