Before The Storm

Prepare

The weather can, often times, be unpredictable and we all know that spring can bring sudden weather changes that can catch us off guard. Prepare for inclement weather by signing up for local weather alerts, stocking your household emergency kits (scroll down for your must-haves) and keeping your cell phones charged in case of power outages.

Severe weather preparedness is essential in the event of an emergency and over 90 percent of your severe weather preparedness will come before the emergency conditions start happening.  

Household Emergency Kit

  • Battery-operated flashlight
  • Battery-operated NOAA weather radio
  • Extra batteries
  • First-aid supplies
  • A 3-5 day supply of water and nonperishable food, plus personal hygiene items and pet items
  • Blankets and sleeping bags
  • A list of important personal information that is easily accessible (including important phone numbers, insurance information and medical information).

Vehicle Emergency Kit

  • Cell Phone charger (compatible with vehicle)
  • Water, snacks (non-perishables like nuts and dried fruit are good options)
  • Reflective vest (in case you need to walk for help)
  • Flashlight, batteries
  • Jumper cables
  • First aid kit
  • Spare tire, lug wrench, jack
  • Fire extinguisher
  • Flares
  • Tow rope
  • Blankets
  • For cold weather: Warm clothes & outerwear, snow brush, shovel, windshield wiper fluid, sand or kitty litter (for traction)

Severe Winter Weather

In addition to cold temperatures and snow and ice, winter brings dangerous driving conditions and the potential for damaging and deadly storms. Severe winter storms can be extremely dangerous. Transportation can come to a standstill and electricity can be out for days, often with very cold temperatures.

  • Adding the following supplies to your disaster supply kit: rock salt to melt ice on walkways; sand to improve traction; snow shovels and other snow removal equipment.
  • Securing an alternate fuel source such as firewood or a generator. Make sure your fireplace functions properly. If you have a generator, make sure you have fuel and that it functions properly. Only operate the generator outdoors. Keep a fire extinguisher on hand.
  • Creating a winter car kit in the trunk of the car. This includes: windshield scraper and small broom, flashlight, blanket, spare radio with batteries, snacks or energy-type food, water, jumper cables, flares and matches, shovel, sand or shingles to give tires traction, extra hats, socks and mittens, first aid kit, fluorescent distress flag.
  • Learning how to shut off water valves in case a pipe bursts.