Action includes creating a plan that everyone in your household understands, assembling an emergency kit, and making sure your home is fortified against the potential damages. When a storm hits, having taken these steps can make a significant difference in the outcome for you and your family.
When a winter storm hits, being prepared can mean the difference between comfort and struggle. The cold, snow, and ice bring their own set of challenges that require specific preparations. Ensuring your home is ready to withstand the cold and that you have the necessary supplies to stay warm and nourished is essential.
It's important to have a heating source that can operate without electricity, if possible, and to stock up on blankets and warm clothing. Keeping a supply of food that doesn't require cooking and water is also crucial, as winter storms can often lead to power outages and trapped conditions at home.
Stock up on non-perishable food items: Having a three-day supply of food that doesn't require refrigeration or cooking can sustain you if a storm disrupts power.
Keep cash on hand: In severe weather, ATMs and credit card machines may not work. Cash can help you purchase essentials if electronic payment systems are down.
Prepare an emergency kit: Your kit should include a first-aid kit, prescription medicines, personal items, and any other essentials. This kit can be a lifeline when disaster strikes.
Invest in a NOAA weather radio and a battery-powered or hand-crank commercial radio: These radios can provide essential updates about severe weather, even when power and internet are unavailable.
Identify a safe room in your home: Choose an interior room on the lowest floor with no windows as your safe space during a storm. This can protect you from flying debris and other dangers.
Secure important documents: Place documents like medical records, birth certificates, and insurance policies in waterproof containers. This can help you rebuild your life after the storm.
Review your insurance coverage: Talk to your insurance agent to ensure your policies cover flooding and other storm damages. Standard homeowners insurance may not cover all types of storm damage.
Learn your evacuation routes and make an emergency plan: Knowing how to leave your area quickly and safely can save lives. An emergency plan should include how to communicate with family members and where to meet if separated.
Preparing for severe storms involves more than just physical supplies; it's also about knowing what to do when warnings are issued. Tornado watches and warnings, for example, signal that you need to be alert to changing weather conditions and ready to move to a safe place, such as a storm cellar or an interior room on the lowest floor with no windows. Keeping a manual can opener, medical supplies, and sleeping bags in your shelter area can also make staying there more comfortable.
Your evacuation plan is a critical part of storm emergency preparedness. It should include safe routes out of your area and identify where you can stay if you need to leave your home. Remember to keep birth certificates, medical records, and other important documents in a safe, easily accessible place so you can take them with you if you need to evacuate quickly.