Staying Safe and Warm During Winter Storms

Winter storms are an ever-present reminder of the power of nature. With winds powerful enough to uproot trees and freeze sheets of ice across roads, these seasonal events create chaos and destruction in their wake. In places that are unaccustomed to snowfall, winter storms can shut down entire cities as people brace themselves for the worst. 

Here are some tips for staying safe and warm during winter storms

1. Stay informed: Keep track of the weather forecast and any alerts or warnings issued by local authorities.
2. Create an emergency kit: Make sure you have enough food, water, and other supplies to last at least three days. Include a flashlight, battery-powered radio, extra batteries, first aid kit, warm clothing, blankets, and any necessary medications.
3. Check smoke detectors: Make sure your home is equipped with working smoke and carbon monoxide detectors to alert of danger if necessary.
4. Keep devices charged: Have your cell phone and battery-powered mobile devices charged in case of a power outage.
5. Stay warm: 
   1. Keep your home heated to at least 68 degrees Fahrenheit and wear warm clothing, including a hat, gloves, and a scarf.
   2. Dress in layers: Wear several layers of loose-fitting, warm clothing to trap heat and keep you warm. Make sure to cover your head, hands, and feet, as these areas are prone to losing heat.
   3. Close off unoccupied rooms: To conserve heat, close off any rooms that you are not using and block off drafts around doors and windows.
   4. Use blankets and draft stoppers: Keep blankets and draft stoppers handy to cover windows and doors to keep out cold air.
   5. Stay active: Engaging in physical activity, such as walking or doing light exercises, can help raise your body temperature and keep you warm.
   6. Drink warm beverages: Sipping on hot tea, cocoa, or soup can help warm you up from the inside out. Avoid alcohol, as it can actually lower your body temperature.
   7. Use a space heater: If you have a space heater, use it to warm up small, enclosed spaces. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and never leave a space heater unattended.
6. Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids, especially water, to stay hydrated. Avoid alcohol and caffeine, as they can increase dehydration.
7. Stay inside: If possible, stay inside during a winter storm. If you must go outside, dress in layers and cover exposed skin to protect against frostbite.
8. Stay on the lookout for signs of hypothermia: These can include shivering, exhaustion, confusion, fumbling hands, memory loss, slurred speech, and drowsiness. If you or someone you know exhibits these symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.
9. Keep your car fueled up: If you must travel during a winter storm, make sure your vehicle is fully fueled.
10. Keep your car stocked: keep your car stocked with blankets, food, water, a flashlight, and other emergency supplies. Let someone know your route and expected arrival time.
11. Vehicle carbon monoxide: A common issue that can be fatal is getting stuck in a snowstorm with your car, and sitting there with your engine running as the snow builds and blocks the exhaust which eventually fills the inside of the care with carbon monoxide. Have a shovel handy to keep snow from building or a tube like a dryer vent accordion tube and duct tape that is compact, but can be used to vent away from the car.

Conclusion

It is essential to stay informed, be prepared and take the necessary safety precautions when facing a winter storm. By following these tips, you can ensure that you will stay safe and warm during any winter storm that may come your way.