Safety Reminders For Winter Weather

February 8th, 2009 • Related • Filed Under • by trisha

Last week the groundhog predicted another six weeks of winter and although some parts of the country are experiencing a warm spell this weekend it is important you do not become lax on preparedness for winter weather. With the potential of several weeks of winter still looming in the future it is better to be safe than sorry. Here are a few tips to stay safe for what remains of the winter.

Keep your pantry stocked.

Depending on what part of the country you live in, the likelihood of getting “snowed in” for several days or even weeks is a thing of the past. In the event of a severe winter snow or ice storm however you may not be able to predict how long you may be stuck at home and having a fully stocked pantry can make your stay not only survivable but comfortable as well. You should aim for stocking your pantry with the minimum of three days worth of emergency food and water. In addition to these items you should also make sure you have simple winter safety tools on hand such as flashlights (with working batteries), extra blankets and an emergency weather radio.

Keep your car stocked.

This is especially important for individuals who regularly travel on rural or out of the way areas. While most folks living or working in these areas are seasoned at “reading” the weather no one can truly predict when a severe storm or blizzard may hit. Whether your car becomes disabled or the roads become impassable it is important to have a winter safety kit close at hand. Included in this kit should be blankets, canned heat (my mother always packed a candle-in-a-can), nonperishable food and water.

Keep yourself informed.

By far the best way to remain safe in the winter is to not get caught off guard when a winter storm approaches. With the technology available today there is really no reason to be unaware of an impending storm. In many cases as winter progresses people living in harsher climates tend to ignore or pay less attention to winter storm warning and advisories. Take heed when the forecast is calling for inclement weather; it is better to be safe than sorry.

For people living in areas affected by winter weather it remains unlikely that you will have to rely on these safety tips for survival but if the situation arises that you find yourself stranded either at home or in your vehicle being prepared will definitely make riding the storm out –a much more comfortable situation with which to deal.