Every time the seasons start to change, it’s always
a good idea to double check your preparations. For folks in more northern
states, preparing for winter is critical—especially with predictions for a harsh
weather this year. But even in milder climates, a winter storm can be
devastating, which is why it’s important to prepare now, before the weather
turns.
Below, we’ve created a checklist to help you make
sure you have everything covered. While this is a pretty thorough list, you
should consider your own individual needs as well to be even more thorough.
Check
& Double Check Your Home
Your home is your best defense against the fickle
mistress of winter. Making sure the structure is sound and secure not only
prepares you for harsh weather, but can also save on your energy bills. Here
are some tips to make sure your home is prepared for winter:
- Make
sure windows are sealed, caulking and adding insulation if necessary
- Have
a professional ensure roof, ceilings, gutters and chimney are in sound and
working order
- Test
all locks, clean and lubricate
- Ensure
enough stock of snow removal supplies and gear (shovels break; keep extra)
Heat,
Light and Fuel
If your home loses power, it’s practically useless
for protecting you from the world outside. That’s why every home needs
alternative sources of fuel for heat, light and other survival needs. That’s
why you need to do and stock these things:
- Test
generator, check fuel supply
- Check
furnace filters, replace if necessary
- Stock
up on well-seasoned wood, if you have a fireplace
- Always
maintain a half tank of gas in your car plus extra gas at home
- Emergency
candles for power outages
- Flashlight
Food
Storage
Winter storms have the ability to trap you in your
home or neighborhood. Road closures would make it impossible to do grocery
shopping. This is why having an ample food supply is one of winter’s biggest
keys.
- Calculate at least 3 servings per day per person
- Enough to last at least 3 months
- Keep an alternative stove with fuel
- You want hot comforting meals that are easy to make
Water
For the same reason as food, you want to ensure the
ability to have plenty of clean, safe water if you’re in the middle of a winter
emergency. You could be trapped. The pipes could freeze. Melted snow could be
contaminated. That’s why we recommend a powerful and long-lasting filtration
system for every home, along these guidelines:
- Enough for a gallon per person per day
- Same as with food, at least three months’ worth
- Water quality is easily contaminated during and after winter storms—make sure you have the ability to filter as many impurities as possible
Gear
for Winter
Because snow and ice can make everyday tasks more
difficult, it’s important to have the right gear to face the most brutal
conditions. Some gear you might consider:
- Axe
or Hatchet
- Solar
or crank-powered emergency radio
- Shovels
- Ice
picks
- Ice
cleats for boots
- Lighters
and other fire starting tools
- Waterproof
winter clothing and boots
Prepare
Your Vehicle
Finally, you’ll want to prepare your vehicle before
the weather turns. Getting stuck in your car is very dangerous, so this is an
absolute must. Here’s what you need in your car:
- New
wiper blades, snow tires or chains
- Keep
at least 72 hours of food
- Extra
gloves, hat, snow brush and blanket in every car
- Keep water or a portable filter
- Make sure
coolant levels are topped off and properly mixed to avoid freezing
Relax
and Rest Assured
Once you have everything in place, it’s time to
rest assured knowing you are ready for the worst winter can brew up. It’s the
most relaxing feeling in the world.
