Be Prepared for Winter Storms

For those of us that live in an area where winter can be deadly, instead of merely uncomfortable, expect the best but prepare for the worst. Here’s how:

Winterize your house, barn, shed, or any other structure that will be used to house people, livestock, and equipment.

• Stock up on canned goods and other no-cook food, a manual can opener, candles, a flashlight, batteries, water, and an NOAA-approved weather radio to tune into severe weather alerts. Remember to also keep pet food handy for your dogs and cats. Keep all items in one place so you don’t waste precious time gathering them during a storm.
• Know how to turn off gas, electric power, and water before evacuating.
• Make sure friends and family have all your cell phone numbers in case your home phone goes out. Designate an out-of-state friend or relative that each family member has to call to report their whereabouts in case you become separated.
• Keep all cars well-maintained and gased up, and put a weather emergency kit in each. Also include extra blankets in case you break down and are stranded in the cold.
• Know ahead of time what you need to do to help elderly or disabled friends, neighbors, or employees.
• Keep shovels, axes, snow blowers, and other debris-clearing tools within reach.
• Make sure you have plenty of firewood on hand if the power goes out. Invest in a generator if your budget allows it.
• Know where your local government shelters are located. Ask your schools and churches if they plan to accept evacuees.
• Keep enough prescription medicine in your posession to get you through the storm.
• Help others any way you can, but only if your own safety is assured.