Be Prepared During A Winter Storm

A blizzard or even a heavy snowfall at the wrong time or in the wrong place can be a rude awakening for homeowners without the necessary supplies for prep and cleanup. Many winter storms are accompanied by dangerously low temperatures and sometimes by strong winds, icing, sleet and freezing rain.

Don’t be caught off guard the next time the white stuff threatens to cripple your region. Create a plan or checklist you can turn to when the weather report starts warning of a snowstorm. Here are seven things you may need to do.

1. Winterize your vehicle and keep the gas tank full. A full tank will keep the fuel line from freezing.
2. Insulate your home by installing storm windows or covering windows with plastic from the inside to keep cold air out.
3. Maintain heating equipment and chimneys by having them cleaned and inspected every year.
4. If you will be going away during cold weather, leave the heat on in your home, set to a temperature no lower than 55° F.
5. Have enough flashlights, batteries, blankets, non-perishable food, medical supplies and plenty of drinking water on hand.
6. Be sure your shovels and ice melt are stored nearby.
7. Check on the elderly people in your life; be sure they have enough food and medication to get through a storm.