Winter Storm & Blizzard Prep

Stay warm, fed, and safe through extended cold and power outages.

Before the Storm

• Check forecast for windchill, ice, and timing of worst conditions
• Fill car with gas; check antifreeze, tire pressure, wipers
• Stock 7-14 days of non-perishable food and 1 gal water/person/day
• Refill prescriptions for at least two weeks
• Fully charge phones, laptops, and every power bank
• Buy/test flashlights, lanterns, weather radio, and batteries
• Pick up rock salt or sand for steps and walkways
• Drip indoor faucets if pipes are at risk; open cabinets under sinks on exterior walls
• Disconnect outdoor hoses, cover spigots
• Stock firewood inside the garage if you have a fireplace
• Bring pets indoors; check on outdoor animals' shelter

Heat Without Power

• NEVER use a gas oven, grill, or generator indoors — CO kills silently
• Confine living to one small room with the most insulation
• Hang blankets over windows and doorways to trap heat
• Wear layers, hat, and dry socks even indoors
• Working CO detector with battery backup is non-negotiable
• Indoor-safe propane heaters (e.g., Mr. Heater Buddy) only with cracked window for ventilation

Pipe Protection

• Let faucets drip on exterior walls during deep freezes
• Open cabinet doors under sinks on exterior walls
• Know where the main water shut-off is, and have a tool to operate it
• If pipes freeze: shut off water main first, then thaw with warm towels — never an open flame

Vehicle Kit

• Blankets, hats, gloves, hand warmers, dry socks
• Snow shovel, ice scraper, kitty litter or sand for traction
• Jumper cables, tow strap, flashlight, road flares
• Water, high-calorie snacks (granola bars, nuts, jerky)
• Phone charger that works off the 12V outlet

If Stranded in Car

• Stay in the car — visibility is best, body heat retained
• Run engine 10 min/hr for heat; crack window slightly; clear exhaust pipe of snow
• Make car visible: hazards, dome light at night, bright cloth on antenna
• Move arms, legs, fingers, toes to keep blood flowing

Watch For

• Hypothermia: shivering, confusion, slurred speech, drowsiness — get warm immediately
• Frostbite: white/grey skin, numbness — warm gradually with body heat, no rubbing
• Roof load: clear heavy snow if accessible safely, especially near valleys and chimneys