Surviving a Winter Storm: How to Prepare Your Household
A winter storm is often unforgiving. Humans are – to a huge extent – at the mercy of nature. This does not mean, however, that you cannot do anything to protect yourself and your family. Here is some advice for staying safe when a winter storm heads your way.
Get your kit ready
An emergency kit may be the difference between survival and being in serious trouble. Make sure you have the following items in your kit before the snow starts falling.
- An environment-friendly snow-melting product like Safe Paw.
- Sand (for vehicle traction)
- Snow shovels
- Dry firewood and alternative sources of fuel, in case you are isolated and fuel supplies are unavailable.
- First-aid kit
- Clean drinking water
- Fire starters like a flint, waterproof matches, or a few Bic lighters
- A battery-powered radio
- An extra cell phone with a fully charged battery. A basic phone can last longer on one charge than a touchscreen smartphone.
- Long-life survival food packets or canned food
Get your household ready
Have a meeting with your family. Discuss the safest spot in your home, in case you have to run for safety. Discuss also where you should all meet in case you suffer separation. Delegate tasks, such as making sure the pets are inside, who grabs which bag, etc.
Giving each member a flashlight with a string for wearing around the neck or belt and a cellphone is also ideal.
Get your vehicle ready
It is ideal to stay indoors during a snowstorm. If you have to move, however, you want your vehicle to be ready. Take your car to your trusted mechanic to get it fully winter-ready. From the antifreeze/coolant to winter tires, your vehicle should have what it needs to get you to safety.
For checking your surroundings after the storm or participating in search and rescue operations, an amphibious search and rescue XTV you can get from providers such as shanksargo.com is more rugged and reliable than a regular vehicle.
If you live in a region often visited by weather disturbances, you may want to invest in one of these ultra-reliable vehicles.
Surviving a winter storm is not only a matter of luck. You have to take action and prepare your home, your vehicle, and your family. One who is prepared is more capable of surviving even when things start to go south.
