Winter weather preparedness means more than just grabbing your coat

The holiday season is fast approaching and so is the winter weather that comes with it. Old Man Winter has already been reeking havoc in the northeast leaving millions without power after “Snowtober.” So, while you’re pulling out your holiday decorations, why not also pull together some basic supplies incase Jack Frost comes knocking on your door.

For Your House

The weather outside might be frightful, but inside can be delightful if you’re willing to go the extra mile and weatherize your house. Here are some steps you can take to make sure your house is ready for anything this winter:

• Insulate walls and attic
• Caulk and weather-strip doors and windows
• Install storm windows or cover windows with plastic from the inside
• Insulate any water lines that run along outer walls
• Service snow-removal equipment
• Have chimney and flu inspected if you are going to use a fireplace or wood-burning stove for heat
• Install easy-to-read outdoor thermometer
• Leave facetes dripping on especially cold nights to prevent pipes freezing (you can also leave cabinet doors open to allow for warm airflow)

When the big storm hits, it might take some time to dig out from under the mountain of snow left on your front step. Make sure you’re prepared to hunker down for a few days by stocking up on some emergency supplies. Consider having the following:

• Battery-powered radio
• NOAA weather radio for listening to National Weather Service
• Drinking water
• Canned/no-cook food (bread, crackers, dried fruits)
• Non-electric can opener
• Baby food and formula (if necessary for baby)
• Prescription drugs and other medicine
• First-aid kit
• Rock salt to melt ice on walkways
• Supply of cat litter or bag of sand to add traction on walkways
• Flashlight and extra batteries
• Battery-powered lamps or lanterns

For Your Car

Getting around in winter weather can be a challenge, and no one wants to be stuck on the side of the road when they could be at grandma’s house enjoying pumpkin pie. Make sure you can get where you’re going by checking the following:

• Antifreeze
• Windshield wiper fluid
• Heater
• Brakes
• Ignition
• Emergency flashers
• Exhaust
• Tires (air pressure and wear)
• Fuel
• Oil
• Brake fluid
• Defroster
• Battery
• Radiator

Don’t get caught unprepared this winter. For more information, go to http://www.bt.cdc.gov/disasters/winter/

Tell us what you think

Have you been a caught off guard by a winter storm? What’s in your winter car kit? Share your thoughts and tips by leaving a comment!