At Home: Preparing for a Snow Storm

While the winter season ushers in outdoor fun in the snow, winter storms bring hazardous conditions that pose a serious safety threat. Ranging from moderate snow over a few hours to blizzard conditions that last several days, a winter storm is not something to mess around with. Your best defense is to be prepared. Plan ahead to keep your family and home safe.

Winterize Your Home
Don't wait until the first snow to think about preparing your house for winter weather. Do it this fall. Be energy efficient and keep the cold out by installing storm windows or covering your windows with sturdy plastic. Fill in any cracks around windows and doors with caulk or weather stripping. Insulate pipes and remove hoses from outdoor water faucets. Be sure to have a good snow shovel and keep plenty of rock salt or sand on hand for slippery driveways and walks.

Look around the yard to determine if any trees might pose a hazard to the house if they were to fall. Consider having them removed by a professional tree service.

When a Snow Storm Approaches
A severe snow storm could keep you trapped in your house for several days or longer. If you heat with wood, oil, or bottled gas, check your fuel supply and call for a delivery before the storm hits. Conserve fuel by keeping your house cooler than usual. Temporarily shut off heat to less-used rooms. Let faucets drip a little to avoid freezing. Be sure smoke detectors are working. And keep a fire extinguisher at the ready.

Assemble Emergency Supplies
Make a trip to the store for supplies before the storm develops. Don't forget essentials, such as prescription medications, extra batteries, first-aid supplies, baby supplies, a week's supply of food (non-perishable), and bottled water. High energy food, such as dried fruit, nuts, and canned goods that do not require heating are best. Plan on a gallon of water per day per person. Don't forget your manual can opener. Gather extra blankets, sleeping bags, and warm clothing (at least one change of clothes for each family member). It's a good idea to make checklist of emergency supplies and keep it stocked in easy-to-carry bags or boxes at all times.

Prepared for a Power Outage
In the event of a power outage, having a safe alternative source of heat is essential. Keep an ample supply of wood for the fireplace or a kerosene space heater with extra heating fuel. Make sure that you have flashlights with extra batteries, or candles and matches. Stay tuned to your local forecast with a portable battery-operated radio. If your furnace goes out, take these precautions. Close off any rooms that aren't needed. Stuff towels in cracks and under doors to prevent heat loss. Cover windows with blankets at night. Stay nourished and hydrated so your body can produce its own heat.