Tips to prepare for a winter storm

Winter storms can bring with them extreme cold and hazardous weather conditions such as heavy snowfalls, freezing rain and ice, as well as strong winds. These in turn can down trees and power lines, disrupting power and communication services and create treacherous conditions for those attempting to travel.

It’s recommended that you prepare your vehicle and home before the winter season begins and maintain vigilance throughout the season. Here’s a look at what you can do to prepare yourself and your loved ones to stay protected from the elements.

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Weatherproofing your home

Keeping the cold out of your home is essential should there be a power outage during a winter storm. While utility workers can fix minor issues within a few hours, severe events could knock out the electricity for days or even weeks.

The first steps you should take are to be sure your insulation will keep your house warm as well insulate any pipes that run along the exterior of you home. Check for cracks or gaps between windows and frames and if any are found, use caulk to seal them. You can also use weather stripping or cover windows with window insulation film to stop drafts.

Have your roof checked for leaks and remove any tree branches that could fall and damage your home. If you plan to use a wood burning chimney, have it cleaned and inspected. The same goes for your furnace. Test all smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors in your house monthly and make sure that they have battery back-ups. Change the batteries twice a year.

Learn emergency skills that may be needed during a severe weather event like treating frostbite and hypothermia. The American Red Cross provides additional information.

The conditions outside may hamper the ability to travel so you should be prepared to stay in your home for an extended period of time. Keep doors shut tightly and use blankets to keep cold air from seeping in underneath the door.

Be careful about carbon-monoxide poisoning, it is recommended to never use a gas stovetop or oven to heat your home, nor burning items in your house. Also if you use a power generator, it should be located outside at least 20 feet away from windows, doors and attached garages.

Gather supplies for several days

You will want to have a supply of food, water and medicine along with other essential items that will last for an extended amount of time in case the power goes out. You may not be able to travel, and even if you can the conditions could be dangerous. Keep in mind that stores may not be open.

Have a good supply of dry warm clothing and blankets to bundle up indoors. Likewise, if you will have to venture out, proper outdoor winter apparel such as waterproof boots, gloves and hats. Use layers of loose clothing. Even a set of snow goggles to protect your eyes from extreme cold if you will be outside for more than a few minutes.

Stay connected and tuned in to alerts

Be sure to check in with your loved ones to make sure that they are okay. Also, sign up for alerts from authorities to stay up to date on the weather and conditions in your area as they evolve. In the event of a power outage, have a battery-powered radio on hand which you can use to stay informed. Likewise, you should keep an extra batteries to be able to charge your cellphone and for other devices like flashlights.