As I woke up to a blanket of snow yesterday morning I couldn’t help but think back to when I was a kid and I wished for snow!! The days when a big snowstorm meant no school. Instead it meant snow suits and boots, sleds, and a big cup of hot chocolate after a day filled with playing with my neighborhood friends.
Now-a-days snow looks a little different to me. I still think about the kids that will be out sledding, having snowball fights, and making snowmen and snow angels. However, as an adult we think about what it means to be prepared for the “BIG ONE”. No, I don’t mean making sure you have milk, bread and toilet paper. However, rightfully so that did seem to be at the top of the list for many shoppers over the last few days.
When bigger storms threaten the area there are several things to think about in order to protect your home and family. Here are just a some things to keep in mind when preparing for severe winter weather.
- Charge your cell phone.
- Make sure you have enough food and water for a few days. Don’t count on being able to use your normal tap water.
- Make sure you have plenty of blankets and winter clothing available.
- Purchase batteries and make sure your flashlights are working.
- Run the heat in your house or business slightly higher than normal. If the power and heating goes out, your house or business will stay warmer longer. This will allow you to keep your family warm and hopefully keep your pipes from freezing as well.
Along with being prepared for the storm prior to its arrival its equally important to be prepared after the storm. Here are a few things to keep in mind when addressing the snow after it has fallen at your home.
- Be vigilant in removing snow and using the proper melting products on walkways, stairs, and driveways to prevent slip and falls. This will help avoid any possible liability claims at your home or business.
- Take breaks when shoveling snow to avoid medical emergencies. Especially when you have the wet and heavier snowfalls.
- Wear weather appropriate clothing and footwear that provides both warmth and traction to protect yourself from the elements.
- Pay attention to the ground you are walking on in the neighborhood, parking lots, and sidewalks. Take your time and watch out for ice and other slick areas.
- If portable space heaters are necessary be sure units are used in a safe space and not too close to flammable materials.
Your home is not the only place to think about the safety of your family during or after a winter weather storm. We do our best to stay off the roads during a winter storm, but sometimes bad weather can sneak up on you. Keep these winter driving tips in mind so you are prepared for driving conditions as needed.
- Limit driving during severe weather to protect yourself from extreme cold and snowfall.
- Winterization of your car can help during dangerous driving conditions. Be sure your windshield wipers and blades are working properly along with having the necessary anti-icing fluids.
- Be more cautious of your surroundings when it comes to bridges and overpasses. These areas can freeze up faster than the normal roadways at times.
- Give yourself extra room between vehicles and brake gently when coming to a stop to avoid hitting other cars or other property.
Keep in mind that the best thing you can do to be safe at home is to stay at home during a winter storm event. However, that is sometimes easier said than done. There are times when you need to get to work or you need to get to family who also need help during the storm.
Do your best to plan ahead and be prepared for these winter storms or other weather related incidents throughout the year. Taking time to do so will keep you safe so you can enjoy the fun part of the snow. Let’s be honest….how many of you parents today have already heard “Do you want to build a snowman?” I must admit the little girl still inside of me thinks that sounds like SNOW MUCH FUN!!!
