Preparing for Ice and Snowstorms

You've heard the forecast warning of ice and snowstorms. What should you do to prepare for them? How do you keep your family safe?

Have water on hand.

In case the electricity goes out in an ice or snowstorm, having drinking water on hand is a must. Try to have a weeks worth of drinking water. You can store it in clean bottles, jugs, buckets etc. You also must take into account any pets like cats and dogs living with you. Make sure you have enough water on hand for them too.

Have food on hand.

A supply of food in case of an ice or snowstorm is important. But make sure you have food supplies that are edible without being heated first, in case of electricity loss.

Foods like peanut butter, crackers, canned fruit; energy bars, etc. are great. And try to have paper plates and plastic forks/spoons as you might not have electricity to be able to wash up with.

Blankets and Warmers.

If you lose your heat source, you will have to try and keep your family warm during an ice or snowstorm. Go through the house and collect all the blankets and Afghans you have. Stack in one area where they are easy to find.

Hand and feet warmers are sold in stores. They last for a few hours and may help keep you warm.

Making the best out of losing your heat.

If you lose your heat in an ice or snowstorm, pick the smallest room in your house and try to live in it until the heat comes back on.

Close the doors and cover the windows to cut down on drafts. Have your blankets in this room. If possible, bring your pets in this room too. Make sure to have a light source.

Lights when the electricity goes off.

Have flashlights, candles or lanterns ready when a warning of an ice or snowstorm is predicted.

If using flashlights, make sure you have fresh batteries on hand. When using candles, make sure they are well protected from coming into contact with flammable items. Keep them out of reach of pets and children.

When using lanterns, keep them out of reach of pets and children. Also try to take them outside to fill/refill them as you don't want a spill of flammable liquid in the house during an ice or snowstorm.

Communication

If you have a cell phone, make sure the batteries are energized. In case the ice or snowstorm knocks out your electricity, you will want a radio that runs on batteries. Again, check the batteries for your radio or tv.

Know where your closet shelter is.

If you lose your heat for a long time or are not prepared for the storm, know where the closest shelter is. Almost every community has a shelter in place for emergencies where people can go to get food, water and warmed up.

In closing, try not to go outside if you are experiencing ice or snowstorms. Wait for the storm to pass and daylight before going outdoors. Whether it be ice or snow, footing can be treacherous after these storms.

Also, be careful, when going outside after an ice or heavy snowstorm in the way of falling power lines and tree limbs. It is always best to wait for daylight. Try to have a full tank of gas in your vehicle.

Common sense and preparation can see you and your family through ice and snowstorms safely!