Helpful Tips For Preparing For Winter Storms

Winter storm in Brownsville, 2015

submitted by Julia Wilson, Edmonson County Extension Office:
Extreme winter weather can leave communities without utilities or other services for long periods of time--- as many of us remember from the 2009 ice storm. Preparing before the storm arrives helps reduce the stress you and your family could experience. Taking time to prepare now prevents dangerous trips to the store once the storm hits.

• Do you have a safe alternative source of heat if you lose power?
• Do you have fuel for any generators you may be using? Use generators outside only and away from windows.
• Charge any devices you may need such as cell phones, tablets, laptops, portable battery packs etc. Turn down the dimness to save battery life.
• Check flashlights and headlamps to make sure the batteries are good.
• Do a couple loads of laundry to ensure your family has clean towels and clothes if needed.
• Inexpensive solar garden lights can be a great way to light up your home at night without the risk of burning candles or oil lamps.
• Have paper plates, plastic cups and utensils,  and paper towels on hand  so you don’t have to worry about washing as many dishes.
• According to the USDA, a refrigerator will keep food safely cold for about 4 hours if it is unopened. A full freezer will hold the temperature for approximately 48 hours (24 hours if it is half full) if the door remains closed.
• If food in your freezer thaws it may be safely refrozen if the food still contains ice crystals or is at 40 °F or below.
• Have a cooler and frozen gel packs handy in case you have to remove your food from the refrigerator to keep it cold.
• Fill the gas tank in your car.
• Have some cash in small bills. If you do go out stores and business may not be able to process debit and credit cards.
• Do you have some forms of entertainment that don’t require electricity like board games, puzzles,  and books?
• How will you cook or warm food? Remember camping stoves should not be used indoors because of carbon monoxide.

 
Check or create an emergency kit. Items to have in an emergency kit:

• Water, at least a gallon per person, per day for 3 days. Don’t forget pets too!
• Easy to prepare shelf stable food like cereal, boxed milk, peanut butter, crackers, soups, canned meat such as tuna, salmon and chicken.
• Manual can opener if you rely on an electric one.
• First aid kit
• Extra batteries for flashlights
• Battery-powered or hand-cranked radio
• Sleeping bag or warm blanket for each person
• Flashlights
• Pet and service animal supplies
• Baby supplies if needed (formula, diapers, etc.)
• Basic toiletries (toothpaste, shampoo, soap, baby wipes)
• Toilet paper and garbage bags

 
For more information, contact the Extension Office, or visit www.ready.gov/winter-weather