Winter Storm Preparation
With winter in full swing, the possibility of severe storms is an ever present reality. Storms that potentially bring heavy snowfall, ice, and yes, power outages. For families, being snowed in without power can be more than just an inconvenience; it could tune into a dangerous situation. That’s why it is crucial to be prepared. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the essential steps to ensure your family remains safe and comfortable during a winter storm.
Understanding Winter Storm Warnings
Stay Informed: Knowing the forecast is your first line of defense. Pay attention to local weather updates and understand what different alerts mean.
- A ‘winter storm watch’ indicates potential severe weather.
- A ‘warning’ means it’s imminent or happening.
Emergency Supplies to Stock Up On
Non-perishable Food: Keep a supply of foods that don’t require refrigeration or cooking. Think canned goods, dry cereals, nuts, and energy bars.
Obviously, eat what is inside the fridge first, unless you are set up with a whole house generator, or have a solar generator that can handle the fridge. We mention more about solar generators for emergencies below.
Water Storage: Store at least one gallon of water per person per day, for at least three days. If you’re uncertain about water safety during a storm, boiling or water purification tablets for emergencies are helpful. For a more in-depth discussion on water purification, check our our article here:
Water Purification Methods: Ensuring Clean Drinking Water in Emergencies – Preppers SITREP
Medications and First Aid: Ensure a well-stocked first aid kit and a reserve of essential prescription medications.
Most importantly, familiarize yourself with your first aid kits and have a fundamental knowledge on how to use them!
Do you know how to apply a tourniquet?
Power Outage Preparedness
Heating Sources: If you have a fireplace or wood stove, make sure you have a supply of wood readily available! Portable heaters can be useful, but ensure they are used safely.
Lighting: Have a supply of flashlights, battery-operated lanterns, and extra batteries. I also recommend having a headlamp for each adult at the least. Headlamps are great as they free up both hands.
Oil lamps are another very good solution.
Candles can be used, but be mindful of fire hazards.
Power Banks and Generators: Portable chargers can keep your devices running. If you use a generator, understand the safety protocols to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning. Also remember that unless you have fuel stored at home, obtaining it might be a challenge during and immediately after a storm.
Your best bet for power generation in this situation is often having a solar generator charged up and standing by. Please check out our article on Solar Generators for Emergencies if you are interested in learning more!
The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Best Solar Power Generators for Emergencies – Preppers SITREP
Keeping Warm during a Power Outage
Beyond portable heaters, here are some other suggestions to keep your home warm during a winter storm power outage:
Insulate Your Home: Seal drafts around doors and windows. Use curtains to minimize heat loss.
Dressing for Warmth: Wear layers of clothing, utilize thermal wear, and have a supply of blankets.
Sharing Body Heat: If things get really desperate, or if you really like each other, staying close can help maintain body heat.
Communication Plans
Family Communication Plan: Have a strategy for contacting each other if you’re separated. This could mean a certain meeting place if cell service is down. Plan ahead!
Emergency Contacts: Keep a list of important contacts, including local emergency services. Ensure that you have this information written down on paper!
Community Resources: Be aware of local shelters and community resources ahead of time in case there is an immediate need to evacuate.
Family Safety
Children: Explain the situation in a calm, reassuring manner. Have activities to keep them occupied like board games, or even Twister to burn a little energy and create some warmth!
Pets: Ensure you have the essential pet supplies, including setting aside water for them, and a warm place for them to stay.
Elderly or Disabled: Plan for any additional needs of vulnerable family members.
Home and Vehicle Safety Checks
Home Maintenance: Each Fall, check your home’s insulation, pipes, and roof integrity before winter weather hits!
Vehicle Preparedness: Equip your vehicle with winter tires and emergency supplies.
Also, every vehicle should be equipped with a “get home bag”, which is a backpack (preferably) with enough supplies to help you get back home if you have a vehicle breakdown or are stranded in the snow.
We have you covered there also!
Get Home Bag: 10 Essential Items for Emergency Preparedness – Preppers SITREP
Staying Informed and Adapting to Changing Conditions
Regularly update yourself on the weather and be ready to adapt your plans if conditions worsen.
At the very least, you should have a hand cranked / battery operated radio that will pick up weather channels as well as AM/FM.
Stay in touch with neighbors and even fellow church members to ensure everyone is safe and has what they need!
Conclusion
Preparing for a winter storm involves thoughtful planning and preparation. By following these steps, you can ensure your family’s safety and comfort during these challenging times. Remember, it’s not just about riding out the storm, but also supporting each other and staying informed.