Many of us live in an area where winter is upon us. Winter is a fun season to enjoy by making snowmen, skiing, skating or making snow forts. It's crucial to prepare for winter because you might face an emergency. This article will go over a few ways that winter may hinder your daily activities and how to be organised for such occurrences. It will discuss winter proofing your car, home, and what steps to take during power outages or other emergencies.
Winter proofing your house
When winter is near, it is important to have items you could need in the event of a damaging winter storm. Consider your household and its individual needs as well. For instance, if you have pets you can plan for them, too. The following lists a few things you should have in your home.
- Blankets and sleeping bags
- Candles and lighters
- Canned food or any non-perishables
- Canned pet food
- Can opener
- Water bottles
- First aid kit
- Radio
- Flashlight and extra batteries
Having these items stored in a safe place will make it easier to find what you need.
Staying warm
One of the biggest things you may encounter during a power outage is having no heat. Some ways you can stay warm are with blankets or a fireplace. Ensure you have a designated area in your house where you go to stay warm; this might be the living room, a spacious bedroom, beside a fireplace, or a family room. Once you have your designated area, you can place extra blankets, candles, and items like magazines and books so the space is equipped for a power outage. If you have a fireplace, ensure that you have enough firewood. If you don't have a fireplace, you can light candles as they give off heat. Be sure to watch the candles so they don't cause a fire. Using a lot of layers of blankets, preferably fleece or wool, holds your body heat and is less likely to escape than using just a quilt or cotton blanket. If you don't have a fleece or wool blanket you can use any blanket. Putting a sweater or a jacket on your pets will help them stay warm.
Non-perishable items
During a storm where you have lost power and you have no means to make food, it's crucial to keep non-perishable foods in an area for emergencies when you are unable to use your appliances. Some things that you could store include any canned goods, water, pop/soda, chips, dried nuts and fruit. If you have pets, ensure you have canned food for them, as well as water.
Being informed
Keep checking your local weather network for any winter storms that could be happening during the week. This gives you some time to get organised and ensure you have enough supplies if you are without power. Be informed of how much snow would be falling, when, and how long, as this allows you to create a safety plan for yourself and your family.
You should consider having a radio so if the power goes out, you can stay tuned to how the weather is progressing and how long it will last. It will also inform you of any updates to restoring your power and road clearing.
Winter proofing your vehicle
If you drive or know someone who drives it's important that their vehicle is ready for winter driving. Items that can be kept in the car may include:
- Winter tires
- Winter windshield washer fluid
- Shovel
- Snow brushes and scraper
- Blankets
- Candles and a lighter
- A flashlight
- A list of people you can call
- Flares
- Non-perishable foods and water
- First aid kit
- Up to date brakes
These items will be handy while driving in winter weather conditions.
Preparing your vehicle for winter
You should have items in your vehicle in case of an emergency. These items are to ensure you are safe, warm, and prepared for anything while driving in wintry weather. Having blankets and candles can help if you are suddenly unable to move due to the road conditions.
Road safety
It's crucial to clear all snow off your vehicle before driving. Snow on your vehicle can fall off while you are driving which may interfere with the driver behind you, especially if ice were to fall off and hit another vehicle, and it could also hinder your own view if the snow falls forwards onto your windscreen. Clearing all snow from windows and mirrors will give you clear view of what is going on around you. If you need to pull over on a road because of poor visibility or you are stuck, turn on your emergency lights (hazard lights) so other drivers can see your vehicle.
Accidents
You might drive by or see an accident. Check to see if the occupants have have called for help and you can see if you are able to do anything to help. If they aren't hurt, you can offer them some blankets or food. If emergency crews are busy and unable to get to them, you can drive them to a hospital. However, if it is a serious accident call your emergency line and ensure you are safely out of any moving traffic by pulling over before assisting. If it appears too dangerous
, don't assist; wait for emergency crews to arrive.
Stuck in snow
If you are stuck in snow while in your vehicle and unable to move, make sure you turn your engine off and put your emergency lights (hazard lights) on. Here are some things to have handy if you are stuck.
- Plywood
- Sand or cat litter
- Gloves and hats
- Candles or a lighter
- Flares
- Shovel
If your vehicle is stuck you can use plywood by placing it under the tires to create traction. Sand or cat litter also creates traction for your tires. This could help free you from the snow. If you have a shovel, you can shovel a path for your vehicle to escape. If it is dark and you have no means of contacting anyone for help, using a flare can be useful in alerting others that you are stuck and need assistance.
Other things to keep in mind
Sometimes it can be hard to know what you may or may not need. Thinking about the weather conditions can help prepare you. If the weather is too dangerous to drive in, don't venture out unless you absolutely have to because you could get stuck or get into an accident.
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