Winter Storm Preparedness.

This week is winter storm awareness week......So I thought would write a post on things you should do and have on hand before the winter storm hits.

Winter storms can range from a moderate snow over a few hours to a blizzard with blinding, wind-driven snow that lasts for several days. Some winter storms are large enough to affect several states, while others affect only a single community. Many winter storms are accompanied by dangerously low temperatures and sometimes by strong winds, icing, sleet and freezing rain.

Regardless of the severity of a winter storm, you should be prepared in order to remain safe during these events.

What do the different warnings, watches and advisories mean?

Winter Storm Outlook - Winter storm conditions are possible in the next 2 to 5 days.

Winter Weather Advisory - Winter weather conditions are expected to cause significant inconveniences and may be hazardous. When caution is used, these situations should not be life threatening.

Winter Storm Watch - Winter storm conditions are possible within the next 36 to 48 hours. People in a watch area should review their winter storm plans and stay informed about weather conditions.

Winter Storm Warning - Life-threatening, severe winter conditions have begun or will begin within 24 hours. People in a warning area should take precautions immediately.

 

A few things that you can do to prepare for a winter storm.

Have a shovel ready. Even if you live in an apartment.

Make sure your flashlights work and that you have fresh batteries.

A good thing to have is a self powered radio. If you don't have this get a good quality battery powered radio.

Have a good supply of non- perishable foods on hand. Also have a manual can opener.

Have a way to cook food, such as one of those camping stoves.

Have a supply of fresh water. If can be bottled water, or tap water you put in gallon containers. I keep several clean plastic milk jugs on hand.

Fill your bath tub with water...this way you have water for flushing toilets and such.

Make sure you have enough prescription medications on hand to last a few days.

Have a good first aid kit.

If the power goes out cordless phones won't work.... so if you don't have a hard wired phone, make sure you have a way to charge your cell phone that doesn't require electricity.

Fill your car with gas.

If you have pets make sure they have enough food to last 5 or 6 days.

As a young mother, I know baby supplies like diapers and such are a must.

Have some cash on hand, credit cards won't work without electricity.

If you have generators and snow blowers make sure they work and have gas.

Safety note....never run a generator indoors.....make sure it's outside where there is plenty of ventilation.

Also remember It will be winter, so frozen foods can stay outside.  Another thing I do is have a couple of ice chest on hand....that way I can place ice in it...and keep milk and other perishable foods in them.

One last thing....make sure you have a good supply of blankets and warm clothes...you might have to wear a few layers in the house to stay warm......