Blizzards, characterized by extreme cold, fierce winds, ice, and other perilous conditions, pose significant threats not only to personal safety but also to property. As you prepare for an impending snowstorm, there are numerous proactive measures you can undertake to safeguard your home from the potential damages wrought by harsh winter weather. Key winter safety strategies include keeping a close eye on evolving weather conditions, amassing necessary supplies, and taking steps to mitigate problems that may arise from ice accumulation and plummeting temperatures.
Step 1: Monitor your local weather.
As a winter storm approaches, it is crucial to monitor your local weather updates frequently, as the timing, intensity, and potential impacts can shift swiftly. Staying informed about changing conditions and forecasts will ensure that you are adequately prepared to navigate the storm safely and effectively.
To fully grasp the potential repercussions of the weather forecast, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the various winter alerts issued by the National Weather Service (NWS). NWS alerts are categorized as advisories, watches, or warnings, with each escalating in severity from awareness to the need for immediate action.
Advisories alert you to the potential for upcoming winter weather.
- Winter Weather Advisory: Issued when winter weather conditions such as snow, ice, sleet, and/or blowing snow are anticipated in your area.
- Wind Chill Advisory: Indicates that low wind chill temperatures are likely, but will not reach the critical warning level.
- Lake Effect Snow Advisory: Forecasts localized or widespread accumulations of lake-effect snow, though the expected accumulation is below the threshold for a warning.
Watches inform you that conditions are favorable for winter weather.
- Winter Storm Watch: Alerts residents that a winter storm is likely due to favorable conditions, potentially bringing heavy snow, sleet, ice, and/or blowing snow.
- Wind Chill Watch: Indicates a risk of dangerously low wind chills caused by the combination of cold air and strong winds.
Warnings alert you to current or imminent unsafe conditions from winter weather. These are the most serious alerts, requiring immediate action.
- Blizzard Warning: Signifies that frequent wind gusts of 35 miles per hour or greater are occurring during or after a snowstorm, creating dangerously low visibility and hazardous travel conditions.
- Winter Storm Warning: Notifies residents of imminent heavy snow, ice, sleet, and/or blowing snow that renders travel hazardous or impossible.
- Wind Chill Warning: Issued when the combination of extreme cold and high winds results in wind chill levels low enough to pose risks of frostbite or hypothermia. Venturing outdoors under these conditions without adequate gear is strongly discouraged.
- Ice Storm Warning: Issued when substantial accumulations of ice, specifically ¼ inch or more, are forecasted, significantly raising the potential for downed power lines, broken tree branches, and hazardous walking or driving conditions.
- Lake Effect Snow Warning: Issued when localized or widespread lake-effect snow squalls are expected to lead to heavy snowfalls and significant accumulation.
Step 2: Gather emergency supplies.
When a snowfall warning is issued, ensuring your preparedness grows increasingly crucial. Preparing for a snowstorm involves gathering essential supplies that will help sustain you during a power outage or in the event you must evacuate quickly. Below are important items and tools to have ready to face blizzards:
- 3-day supply of water and nonperishable food (1 gallon of water per person per day)
- Flashlights with extra batteries
- A 1-month supply of prescription medications or necessary medical supplies
- Battery-powered or hand-cranked emergency radio
- Backup batteries or power banks for cell phones and other electronics
- Warm clothing (hats, gloves, coats, etc.) for every household member
- Blankets
- First aid kit
- Diapers, formula, and any other baby essentials (if applicable)
- Manual can opener
- Firewood for a fireplace or stove (if applicable)
- Fire extinguisher
- Working smoke detectors
- Snow shovel
- Ice melt
- Extra gasoline and snow shovel for the car
Step 3: Keep your pipes from freezing.
The frigid temperatures that characterize blizzards, combined with the likelihood of power outages, can lead to frozen pipes. Learning effective methods to prevent pipes from freezing is crucial to avoid costly damage and the hassle of repairs. If water in the pipes freezes, cracking or leaking can occur, resulting in not only water damage but also potential mould growth.
Several proactive measures can reduce the risk of freezing pipes. Incorporating these strategies into your winter preparation checklist can significantly bolster your home’s defenses against extreme cold. Bill Martin, president and CEO of Plymouth Rock Home Assurance, emphasizes the need to turn off and drain outdoor water lines to mitigate risks. “Cold temperatures can severely damage outdoor water lines, but there are preventive measures you can take against spigots freezing and bursting. Prior to cold weather setting in, you should shut off the water supply, disconnect hoses, drain outdoor faucets, and install air bleed caps to ensure no water is left outside to freeze,” he advises.
During blizzard conditions, open the cabinet doors under sinks to allow warmer air from your home to circulate around the plumbing. This simple act can significantly contribute to maintaining a more favorable temperature for your pipes. For short durations (up to a few days) of extreme cold, Martin recommends turning on faucets to let a slow drip of cold water flow from bathroom and kitchen sinks, as this can help prevent ice blockages from forming in your pipes.
To address long-term concerns, consider insulating your pipes. “Investing in pipe insulation is a cost-effective measure compared to the expensive repairs that result from a burst water pipe. Ensure pipes located in unheated areas—attics, basements, crawl spaces, or garages—are properly insulated,” advises Martin. This investment will provide valuable peace of mind when blizzard warnings are issued.
Step 4: Be prepared for a power outage.
Whether snowstorm, ice storm, or freezing rain is in the forecast, having a strategy in place for potential power outages is essential. The disruptive weather typical of blizzards—high winds and heavy snowfall—often leads to downed power lines. Steve Powell, executive vice president of property and catastrophe at Sedgwick, advises, “Have a plan for heat and lighting in case you lose power and prepare a backup plan, such as staying with a neighbor or at a warming shelter.” If you own a generator, ensure it is set up and ready for use, always keeping in mind the critical safety reminder: “Never run a generator indoors, the carbon dioxide emitted can be lethal.”
While your power is still operational, maximize preparedness by charging cell phones, medical equipment, and other essential electronics. If you have backup batteries or power banks, make sure these are fully charged and plugged in prior to any outages.
Step 5: Stay off icy roads if possible.
Venturing out in blizzard conditions creates serious hazards. In most instances, staying indoors is the wisest decision, effectively eliminating the risk of encountering falling snow or the perilous whiteout conditions that can result from severe blowing snow. If your vehicle stalls or becomes stuck on the roadside, and assistance cannot arrive quickly, you jeopardize your safety with the risk of frostbite or hypothermia.
If travel is absolutely necessary, taking proper safety precautions is vital. Equip your vehicle with extra blankets, hats, gloves, a snow shovel, and a first aid kit. Dress in layers and wear waterproof boots to help protect against the elements. When driving, exercise extreme caution and proceed at a reduced speed. If your vehicle gets stuck, remain inside rather than exposing yourself to the brutal cold. The NWS suggests running the car for about 10 minutes each hour to help maintain warmth, while also cracking a window slightly to ensure the exhaust pipe remains clear and to avert carbon monoxide or gas poisoning.
Preparing before a blizzard enables you to navigate safely if you must drive in snowy, windy, or icy conditions. Prior to winter weather events, check your tire pressure and tread to guarantee they provide optimal traction on slippery roads. Stay current on necessary vehicle maintenance, paying particular attention to oil and antifreeze changes. Lastly, don’t forget to inspect your car’s battery, having a professional check it if needed, and ensure your gas tank is full to avoid being stranded.
What to Do After a Blizzard
Your responsibilities extend beyond the end of the blizzard. After confirming the safety of your loved ones, it’s time to evaluate your property. “If you discover property damages, document the damages with photographs, contact your insurance company about filing a claim, and take steps to prevent further damage,” advises Powell.
Next, it is crucial to take action to clear snow from your car and pathways. For large properties, investing in a snow blower—especially an eco-friendly electric model—can be a wise decision. If snow removal services are available in your area, consider utilizing their expertise if you lack the time or ability to safely perform snow clearing yourself.
When working outdoors to clear snow, protect yourself with insulated clothing, a hat, and gloves. To minimize the risk of frostbite or hypothermia, limit your time spent outside in the elements.
Ensuring the exhaust pipe is clear of snow to prevent carbon monoxide buildup. Keep your windows slightly cracked to allow fresh air in. It’s critical to stay aware of your environment and avoid overexertion to conserve energy in these demanding conditions.
If you find yourself in a situation where you must travel, regularly check weather updates, and be prepared for changing conditions. Investing in a good roadside emergency kit, which includes items such as jumper cables, flares, and food bars, can be beneficial in case of roadside emergencies.
preparing for winter weather involves monitoring alerts, gathering emergency supplies, protecting your home from freezing temperatures, and planning for power outages. Staying informed and cautious can help keep you and your loved ones safe during the harsh winter months.
