How to Prepare for Winter Snowstorms

The Blizzard of 1993 was a rough one in my hometown. Snowstorms overtook the state of Virginia. The snowfall total was 18 inches in March alone. Schools were closed for an average of three to four weeks. My family was actually stuck in our home for an entire week. At least three of those days were spent without electricity due to fallen power lines. Needless to say, we learned how to be prepared for snowstorms. It is a good idea for every family to have supplies in case there is an unexpected snowfall or power outage.

The first thing you want to make sure you have is a source of light, such as a flashlight. You also want to have batteries for the flashlight. Several sets of batteries are a good idea, in case you lose power for days. Fallen power lines overweighed by ice are not an uncommon thing during snowstorms, so light will be necessary to maneuver around the house.

You also want to have a batter-powered radio so you can tune in to your local radio station for snowstorm updates. This could be your only link to the outside world for days. A National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) weather radio receiver can keep you in touch with National Weather Service broadcasts.

In extremely cold winter weather, pipes could freeze or burst. In that case, water is one important item to have plenty of during a snowstorm. The general rule is one gallon per person, per day. It is a good idea to have around a three-day supply of water.

Eating is a necessity, so a supply of non-perishable food is absolutely necessary. A trip to the grocery store is warranted if a winter weather warning is in effect. Some good foods to have on hand are canned meats and vegetables, trail mixes, peanut butter and crackers, granola bars, canned or boxed juices, powdered milk, and baby food if you have an infant. Be sure and stock up on powdered formula for infants as well. If you have items that require a can opener, be sure you have a non-electric can opener.