Make sure your home heating sources are installed according to local codes and permit requirements and are clean and in working order.
Make sure your home is properly insulated. Caulk and weather-strip doors and windowsills to keep cold air out.
Install storm windows or cover windows with plastic from the inside to provide an extra layer of insulation to keep cold air out.
Consider buying emergency heating equipment, such as a wood- or coal-burning stove or an electric or kerosene heater (if permitted by law in your area). Follow all of the manufacturer’s instructions for safe installation and use.
Consider storing sufficient heating fuel. Regular fuel sources may be cut off. Be cautious of fire hazards when storing any type of fuel.
If you have a fireplace, consider keeping a supply of firewood or coal. Be sure the fireplace is properly vented and in good working order and that you dispose of ashes safely.
Consider installing a portable generator, following safety tips to avoid home fires and carbon monoxide poisoning
Consider purchasing flood insurance, if you live in a flood-prone area, to cover possible flood damage that may occur during the spring thaw. Homeowners’ policies do not cover damage from floods. (www.fema.gov/nfip.)
Talk with your family about what to do if a winter storm watch or warning is issued.
Have your vehicle winterized before the winter storm season to decrease your chance of being stranded.
Have a mechanic check your battery, antifreeze, wipers and windshield washer fluid, ignition system, thermostat, lights, flashing hazard lights, exhaust system, heater, brakes, defroster, and oil.
Install good winter tires with adequate tread. All-weather radials are usually adequate but some jurisdictions require vehicles to be equipped with chains or snow tires with studs.
Keep in your vehicle:
A windshield scraper and small broom
A small sack of sand for generating traction under wheels and a set of tire chains or traction mats
Matches in a waterproof container
A brightly colored (preferably red) cloth to tie to the antenna
An emergency supply kit, including warm clothing
Keep your vehicle’s gas tank full so you can leave right away in an emergency and to keep the fuel line from freezing.
Keep a supply of non-clumping kitty litter to make walkways and steps less slippery.
Service snow removal equipment before the winter storm season and maintain it in good working order.
Keep handy a warm coat, gloves or mittens, hat, water-resistant boots, and extra blankets and warm clothing for everyone in your household.
Bring your companion animals indoors.
Create a place where your other animals can be comfortable in severe winter weather. Horses and livestock should have a shelter where they can be protected from wind, snow, ice, and rain. Grazing animals should have access to a protected supply of food and non-frozen water
Be aware of the potential for flooding when snow and ice melt and be sure that your animals have access to high ground that is not impeded by fencing or other barriers. You may not be able to get to them in time to relocate them in the event of flooding.
Bring your companion animals inside and ensure that your horses and livestock have blankets if appropriate and unimpeded access to shelter, food, and non-frozen water.
What Should You Do During a Winter Storm?
Stays Indoors If Possible
Protect Yourself Outdoors
Wear layers of loose-fitting, lightweight, warm clothing.
Listen to local news or NOAA Weather Radio for updated emergency information.
Bring your companion animals inside.
Move other animals to sheltered areas with a supply of non-frozen water.
Eat regularly.
Drink fluids such as warm broth or juice. Avoid caffeine and alcohol which can cause dehydration.
Conserve fuel. Lower the thermostat to 65° F (18° C) during the day and to 55° F (13° C) at night.
Check on relatives, neighbors, and friends who are elderly or live alone.
Wear layered clothing, mittens or gloves, and a hat. Outer garments should be tightly woven and water repellent.
Cover your mouth to protect your lungs from severely cold air. Avoid taking deep breaths; minimize talking.
Watch for signs of hypothermia and frostbite.
Keep dry. Wet clothing loses much of its insulating value and transmits heat rapidly away from the body.
Avoid overexertion, such as shoveling heavy snow, pushing a vehicle, or walking in deep snow.
Walk carefully on snowy, icy sidewalks.
Use public transportation if possible.
How Can You Stay Safe After a Winter Storm?
After a Winter Storm
Avoid Frostbite and Hypothermia
Continue listening to local news or a NOAA Weather Radio station for updated information and instructions. Access to some parts of the community may be limited or roads may be blocked.
Help people who require special assistance—infants, elderly people, those without transportation, large families who may need additional help in an emergency situation, people with disabilities, and the people who care for them.
Avoid driving and other travel until conditions have improved.
Avoid overexertion. Heart attacks from shoveling heavy snow are a leading cause of death during the winter.
Check on your animals and ensure that their access to food and water is unimpeded by drifted snow, ice, or other obstacles.
If you are using a portable generator, take precautions against carbon monoxide poisoning, electrocution and fire.
Be aware of the wind chill. Dress appropriately and avoid staying in the cold too long. Wear a hat and gloves when appropriate with layers of clothing. Avoid unnecessary exposure of any part of the body to the cold.
Drink plenty of warm fluids or warm water but avoid caffeine and alcohol. Stay active to maintain body heat.
