How to Prepare for Winter Snowstorms

The Blizzard of 1993 was a rough one in my hometown. Snowstorms overtook the state of Virginia. The snowfall total was 18 inches in March alone. Schools were closed for an average of three to four weeks. My family was actually stuck in our home for an entire week. At least three of those days were spent without electricity due to fallen power lines. Needless to say, we learned how to be prepared for snowstorms. It is a good idea for every family to have supplies in case there is an unexpected snowfall or power outage.

The first thing you want to make sure you have is a source of light, such as a flashlight. You also want to have batteries for the flashlight. Several sets of batteries are a good idea, in case you lose power for days. Fallen power lines overweighed by ice are not an uncommon thing during snowstorms, so light will be necessary to maneuver around the house.

You also want to have a batter-powered radio so you can tune in to your local radio station for snowstorm updates. This could be your only link to the outside world for days. A National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) weather radio receiver can keep you in touch with National Weather Service broadcasts.

In extremely cold winter weather, pipes could freeze or burst. In that case, water is one important item to have plenty of during a snowstorm. The general rule is one gallon per person, per day. It is a good idea to have around a three-day supply of water.

Eating is a necessity, so a supply of non-perishable food is absolutely necessary. A trip to the grocery store is warranted if a winter weather warning is in effect. Some good foods to have on hand are canned meats and vegetables, trail mixes, peanut butter and crackers, granola bars, canned or boxed juices, powdered milk, and baby food if you have an infant. Be sure and stock up on powdered formula for infants as well. If you have items that require a can opener, be sure you have a non-electric can opener.

Make sure you have blankets and pillows to keep everyone warm during the snowstorm. If the electricity is not working, the heat may be off as well, and everyone is at a higher risk for hypothermia. Temperatures average in the 20's during the day, and can get in the teens or single digits at night. Plenty of warm blankets, or possibly sleeping bags, are a great idea to have on hand.

Warmth is essential during a snowstorm. If you have a fireplace or wood stove, ensure that you have plenty of dry kilning for the fireplace. If you do not have a fireplace, you may want to look into non-electrical sources of heat, such as non-electric space heaters. If using gasoline, propane or oil heaters, beware of carbon monoxide poisoning. New heaters are equipped with an ODS (oxygen depilatory sensor). Heaters with this type of sensor are immediately shut down if oxygen levels are lower than normal.

If a snowstorm is in the making, it is a good idea to check medication supplies. If a family member's medication is running low and you are stuck in your house for days, refilling it will be nearly impossible. Adequate supply of medically necessary medication is of the utmost importance.

A first aid kit is a great idea to have on hand all the time. You never know what kind of emergency or accident could arise during your confinement. Items to keep in your first aid kit include adhesive bandages in a variety of sizes, gauze pads, roller bandages, tape, antiseptic spray or Neosporin, tweezers, and over-the counter pain relievers such as Tylenol.

If you have a pet, it is crucial that you have enough supplies for them as well. Plenty of dry or canned food, at least a gallon of bottled water, and adequate blankets to keep your pet warm (yes, they get cold too!) are all important. If your pet is on any type of medication, it is important to keep an adequate supply of their medications as well.

If you know there is a snowstorm coming, it's a good idea to keep all these items together so they are easier to find if power is lost. That way, your family does not have to scramble around in the dark to gather supplies, nor does anyone have to worry if there are ample supplies for the entire family. With enough planning, you can be prepared for the direst of situations.