It’s essential to prepare for the challenges that come with snowstorms. Winter storms can pile on snow, freezing rain and ice, high winds, and extremely cold temperatures. Here are some steps you can take to prepare yourself and your family before a snowstorm hits!
Why prepare?
Preparing for a snowstorm is crucial for safety and well-being, as it ensures you are equipped to navigate hazardous conditions. Extreme winter weather can lead to collapsed roofs, power outages, and storm-related injuries.
1. Monitor Weather Forecasts
It’s important to stay informed by regularly checking weather forecasts. This will allow you to anticipate the severity and the timing of the snowstorm, which will provide time to take needed precautions!
2. Stock Up on Essentials
Create an emergency kit that includes non-perishable food items, bottled water, medications, and household supplies. Be sure to have enough to sustain your household for at least a few days.
3. Stay Connected
Charge your phones and any other electronic device, and have a backup power source, such as a power bank. Stay connected with family and neighbors to offer or receive assistance if needed and when safe to do so!
If your medical equipment uses electricity, talk to your health care provider and utility company for options during a power outage.
>> 6 Tips to Prep Your Home for Winter
4. Prep Your Car
Preparing your car before a snowstorm is essential to ensure safe travel in winter conditions. Make sure your tires are in good shape and are properly inflated. If necessary, switch to snow tires for better traction.
5. Shovel and Salt
Keep your driveway and walkways clear by having a snow shovel and ice melt or rock salt on hand. Regularly shovel during large storms to prevent buildup or heavy, hard to remove snow!
Remember, ice melt tends to sell out quickly at local stores before a storm. Be sure to start stocking up early so that you’ll have plenty for a snowstorm. Some green alternatives for ice melt are alfalfa meal, sand, or vinegar.
6. Pet Safety
We need to prepare our furry friends for snowstorms as well, because winter brings unique challenges, and we want our pets to feel comfortable and safe. Snow and ice can be harsh on pets’ paws, consider using pet-safe ice melt, or a green alternative on walkways and driveways. Wiping your pets’ paws after outdoor activities can help remove salt, chemicals, or ice.
Also, be careful not to let your pet eat anything they shouldn’t outside. Ingesting chemicals on the ground can make your pet sick or worse.
>> Pet Safety 101: Keep Your Animals Safe at Home
Prioritizing Safety at Keches Law
Winter brings its own set of challenges, but when the right precautions are taken, we can ensure a safe winter season! Stay warm and safe.
If you or someone you know has suffered an injury, explore our Lesiones personales and Workers’ Compensation services. Contact Keches Law to discuss your case.