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What Do You Need to Prepare for a Blizzard?

Every year blizzards cause a series of problems, from loss of electricity to impassable roads. By being prepared with some essential items before a blizzard strikes your area, you can avoid unnecessary headaches and keep your family safe.

  1. Food and Water

    • Keep a three day supply of drinking water on hand. According to the Red Cross, this means one gallon of water per person each day. Also, have on hand a three day supply of non-perishable food stuffs for the whole family. Buy foods that don’t require a lot of preparation, as use of a stove or microwave may be limited. If pets are owned, have an extra three day supply of pet food available as well.

    Stay Warm

    • Make sure that every member of the family has a warm winter coat, gloves or mittens, waterproof boots, hats and extra blankets. If possible, have in place an alternative heating method such as a fireplace or a wood or coal-burning stove. Ensure proper ventilation of these forms of heating to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning. Install carbon monoxide alarms in central locations of the home for the safety of your family.

    Medications and Personal Items

    • Store a seven day supply of any medications the family may take. Keep on hand any medical items the family may use such as hearing aids, glasses, contact lenses, canes and syringes. A first aid kit can also be a life saver. Also, have available a seven day supply of personal hygiene and sanitation items. If there is a baby in the family, have a week’s supply of bottles, formula, diapers and baby food on hand. For pets, make sure they have a leash, collar, ID, carrier and bowl.

    Other Necessary Items

    • Keep a flashlight with extra batteries at your home. To stay up-to-date with weather updates, buy a battery-powered radio. Make copies of personal documents such as passports, birth certificates, insurance policies and the deed or lease on a home. Make a list of family and emergency contact information. Buy an all-purpose tool and other supplies for securing your home if it becomes necessary. Keep a stash of extra cash for emergencies. Store sand or rock salt to make walkways safer to walk on.

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