Winter Weather Emergency Preparedness

The coming winter months hold the possibility of icy roads, power outages, freezing cold and snow drifts. Below are a few steps you can take to prepare for winter-weather emergencies.

Add the following supplies to your emergency kit:

• Rock salt to melt ice on walkways
• Sand to improve traction
• Snow shovels and other snow removal equipment.

Prepare your home and family

• Prepare for possible isolation in your home due to power outages by having sufficient heating fuel; regular fuel sources may be cut off. For example, store a good supply of dry, seasoned wood for your fireplace or wood-burning stove.
• Winterize your home to extend the life of your fuel supply by insulating walls and attics, caulking and weather-stripping doors and windows, and installing storm windows or covering windows with plastic.
• Winterize your house, barn, shed or any other structure that may provide shelter for your family, neighbors, livestock or equipment. Clear rain gutters; repair roof leaks and cut away tree branches that could fall on a house or other structure during a storm.
• Insulate pipes with insulation or newspapers and plastic and allow faucets to drip a little during cold weather to avoid freezing.
• Keep fire extinguishers on hand, and make sure everyone in your house knows how to use them. House fires pose an additional risk, as more people turn to alternate heating sources without taking the necessary safety precautions. If you have a live Christmas tree, be sure to water regularly as dry trees pose a significant fire hazard.

Prepare your car

• Be sure to check the following items on your car:
  • Antifreeze levels - ensure they are sufficient to avoid freezing.
  • Battery and ignition system - should be in top condition and battery terminals should be clean.
  • Heater and defroster - ensure they work properly.
  • Lights and flashing hazard lights - check for serviceability.
  • Windshield wiper equipment - repair any problems and maintain proper washer fluid level.
• Install good winter tires. Make sure the tires have adequate tread. All-weather radials may be adequate for most winter conditions.
• Maintain at least a half tank of gas during the winter season.
• Place a winter emergency kit in each car that includes:
  • a shovel
  • windshield scraper and small broom
  • flashlight
  • battery powered radio
  • extra batteries
  • water
  • snack food
    hand / feet warmers
  • extra hats, socks and mittens
  • First aid kit  
  • Necessary medications
  • blanket(s)
  • road salt and sand
  • booster cables

Dress for the Weather

• Wear several layers of loose fitting, lightweight; warm clothing rather than one layer of heavy clothing. The outer garments should be tightly woven and water repellent.
• Wear mittens, which are warmer than gloves.
• Wear a hat.
• Cover your mouth with a scarf to protect your lungs.

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