About

Winter Storm

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Winter storms can range from a moderate snow over a few hours to a blizzard with blinding, wind-driven snow that lasts for several days. Some winter storms are large enough to affect several states, while others affect only a single community. Many winter storms are accompanied by dangerously low temperatures and sometimes by strong winds, icing, sleet and freezing rain.

Regardless of the severity of a winter storm, you should be prepared in order to remain safe during these events.

Know the Difference

Winter Storm Outlook - Winter storm conditions are possible in the next 2 to 5 days.

Winter Weather Advisory - Winter weather conditions are expected to cause significant inconveniences and may be hazardous. When caution is used, these situations should not be life threatening.

Winter Storm Watch - Winter storm conditions are possible within the next 36 to 48 hours. People in a watch area should review their winter storm plans and stay informed about weather conditions.

Winter Storm Warning - Life-threatening, severe winter conditions have begun or will begin within 24 hours. People in a warning area should take precautions immediately.

Prepare

How to Prepare for a Winter Storm

• Winterize your vehicle and keep the gas tank full. A full tank will keep the fuel line from freezing.

• Insulate your home by installing storm windows or covering windows with plastic from the inside to keep cold air out.

• Maintain heating equipment and chimneys by having them cleaned and inspected every year.

• If you will be going away during cold weather, leave the heat on in your home, set to a temperature no lower than 55° F.

Put Together a Supply Kit

• Water—at least a 3-day supply; one gallon per person per day

• Food—at least a 3-day supply of non-perishable, easy-to-prepare food

• Flashlight

• Battery-powered or hand-crank radio (NOAA Weather Radio, if possible)

• Extra batteries

• First aid kit

• Medications (7-day supply) and medical items (hearing aids with extra batteries, glasses, contact lenses, syringes, etc.)

• Multi-purpose tool

• Sanitation and personal hygiene items

• Copies of personal documents (medication list and pertinent medical information, proof of address, deed/lease to home, passports, birth certificates, insurance policies)

• Cell phone with chargers

• Family and emergency contact information

• Extra cash

• Baby supplies (bottles, formula, baby food, diapers)

• Pet supplies (collar, leash, ID, food, carrier, bowl)

• Tools/supplies for securing your home

• Sand, rock salt or non-clumping kitty litter to make walkways and steps less slippery

• Warm coats, gloves or mittens, hats, boots and extra blankets and warm clothing for all household members

• Ample alternate heating methods such as fireplaces or wood- or coal-burning stoves

Protect Your Pets During Snowstorms

  

  

  

Make Sure Your Pets are Prepared for Winter Weather

Winter weather can be hard on all of us. It can be particularly difficult on our pets that rely on us for their wellbeing, especially for outdoor dogs and cats. To help keep your entire family safe and warm, the American Red Cross has winter safety reminders for both you and your pets.

Pet Safety in the Winter

• If possible, bring your pets inside during cold winter weather. Move other animals or livestock to sheltered areas and make sure they have access to non-frozen drinking water.

• If the animals are outside, make sure their access to food and water is not blocked by snow drifts, ice or other obstacles.

The following tips on winter pet safety are provided by the Humane Society of the United States:

• If pets cannot come indoors, make sure they are protected by a dry, draft-free enclosure large enough to allow them to sit and lie down, but small enough to hold in the pet’s body heat. Raise the floor a few inches off the ground and cover it with cedar shavings or straw. Turn the enclosure away from the wind and cover the doorway with waterproof burlap or heavy plastic.

• Salt and other chemicals used to melt snow and ice can irritate a pet’s paws. Wipe their paws with a damp towel before your pet licks them and irritates their mouth.

• Antifreeze is a deadly poison. Wipe up spills and store antifreeze out of reach.