Winter storms can wreak havoc. Extreme cold, ice, high winds, heavy snowfall, and freezing rain create dangerous conditions and can cause property damage.
Heat, power, communication, and transportation can be disrupted due to winter storm conditions. Being prepared ahead of a weather event can help you and your loved ones protect yourselves and your home. These winter storm preparedness tips from the American Red Cross can help you be ready for extreme winter weather.
Know Your Winter Storm Alerts
Understand winter storm alerts and what they mean so you know when and how to take action.
- Winter Storm Warning: Life-threatening, severe winter conditions.
- Blizzard Warning: Sustained winds or gusts of 35 miles per hour or more, with considerable falling or blowing snow. Visibility will be reduced to less than a quarter mile, expected to continue for three hours or longer.
- Wind Chill Temperature: This is the “feels like” temperature based on how wind and cold feel on exposed skin.
- Winter Storm Outlook: Winter storm conditions are possible in the next 2-5 days.
- Winter Storm Watch: Winter storm conditions are possible in the next 36-48 hours. Stay informed about weather conditions.
- Winter Weather Advisory: Weather conditions are likely to cause significant inconveniences and potentially hazardous conditions. Exercise caution.
What to Do Before a Winter Storm
Check your heating before winter begins to ensure everything is working properly. If needed, use insulation, caulking, and weather stripping to keep your home well-insulated. If a winter storm is coming, plan to stay indoors to prevent frostbite and hypothermia. You can get an indoor thermometer or use your thermostat to monitor the temperature inside your home.
Plan to check on loved ones and neighbors, especially older adults and infants, to make sure they’re staying warm. If you have older loved ones who live alone, it may be a good time to host them, since weather conditions may limit travel for several hours or days.
Avoid travel if you can, but if you must go outdoors, be sure to dress appropriately. Warm, dry clothing can protect your nose, ears, cheeks, chin, fingers, and toes, which are the first areas to be at risk for frostbite. Wear layers of loose clothing and water-resistant boots to protect yourself from the elements. Hats, coats, mittens, and scarves can help. If it gets too cold in your home due to a heating problem or power outage, know where to go. Is there a friend nearby you could visit, or does your community have a warming center during extreme weather? The public library is also a great option.
Drink plenty of fluids, avoiding alcohol and caffeine. Make sure you have plenty of food, water, and any necessary medications on hand. Stores may close due to weather conditions and it may be unsafe to travel.
Build a Go-Kit
Organize three days or more of supplies you can take with you if it’s necessary to go somewhere else to stay warm. Make sure you have backup batteries and chargers for your devices – mobile phones, CPAP, wheelchair, etc.
Keep emergency supplies such as a blanket, warm clothing, a first aid kit, and warm boots in your vehicle.
If you or a loved one has been injured, contact the Schuerman Law office today. Schuerman Law has been working with personal injury claims for over 40 years. John Schuerman will compassionately advocate for injured individuals as well as their families while fighting for full compensation of their claims. Schuerman Law offers evening and weekend appointments in addition to home and hospital visits. Schedule a free consultation today by calling 1-800-274-0045.
