How to Prepare for Blizzards: The [5] Essential Items You Need to Survive

Master Disaster Checklist

If you want to keep your property, family, pets, and business safe during natural disasters, it’s important to be prepared. This master checklist gives you a good foundation for what to do, what to have, and what to plan for.

• Secure Contact Information: Make sure you have a printed out copy as the power may be out and you might not have access to your computer or documents. Include names and telephone numbers, as well as out-of-town friends or family who might be able to help you. It’s important to have an out-of-town friend listed because your friends who live in your town might not be able to help you if a disaster affected them, too. Additionally, prearrange a nearby meet-up place after the emergency. It could be the local high school, a relative’s home, or a grocery store.
• Have a Plan: Make sure that all of your family knows about your disaster plan (escape routes, where the emergency kit is stored, who to contact, and what to do in case of a natural disaster).
  • Identify a Safe Room: Point out which room is the safest room in your home. This should be an interior room without windows, if possible (maybe a closet or a bathroom). This is the place your family should seek shelter when storm warnings are issued.
• Stay Informed: Make sure that you have a portable radio with fully charged batteries so that you can get the latest up-to-date information about the disaster. If you are in the path of the disaster, go to your pre-designated shelter area immediately.
• Take Photos/Video of Your Property: If you have an inventory of your valuables and possessions you are likely to be able to claim up to 20% more insurance than if you don’t. Taking photos and videos with your cell phone is an easy way to document your items. Be sure to upload all the images to secure cloud backup and not just store on your property.
• Charge Electronic Devices: During a disaster, you may lose power. Ensure your cell phone is fully charged, along with other electronic devices like tablets and laptop computers. Also, think about purchasing a solar-powered backup charging device.
• Get Cash: When the power goes out, ATM machines won’t work. Get plenty of one dollar bills because not many people will have change for twenty and hundred dollar bills. Try to aim for ones, fives, and tens.
• Fill Up on Gas: Fill your gas tank. When the power goes out, gas pumps won’t work.
• Disaster Supplies Kit: A disaster supplies kit is essential to keeping you and your family safe. It should include non-perishable food, water, medical supplies, clothes, pet food and supplies, medications, batteries, flashlights, etc. Consider the following list: 
  • Flashlight
  • Batteries
  • First Aid Kits: For $20, you can have medical supply basics — all in one place — and ready to use. Minor as well as major injuries are possible during an earthquake and it’s possible that emergency services will be overwhelmed, so having a first aid kit is essential.
  • Solar Cell Phone Charger: Solar powered charges start in the mid-$20 range and go up from there. The best selling Amazon solar charger is $60 and is fast with “industrial-strength PET polymer faced solar panels sewn into a rugged polyester canvas offer weather-resistant outdoor durability.” If the power goes out, you might have no other way to charge your phone.
  • Crank-Powered Radio: You can pay upwards of $100 for a decent crank radio, but you don’t have to spend that much. The best-selling Amazon crank radio is only $20!
  • Emergency Water Filter: There’s no need for an expensive filtration system. The LifeStraw Personal Water Filter has 5,000 reviews and is only $20! The LifeStraw “removes minimum 99.9999% of waterborne bacteria, 99.9% of waterborne protozoan parasites, and filters to 0.2 microns; surpasses EPA filter standards.”
  • Bottled Water (minimum of three gallons for each member of your family)
  • Battery-Powered Radio
  • Battery-Powered Lantern
  • Emergency Food Supply
  • Can Opener
  • Basic Tools (utility knife, pliers, wrench, tape, compass)
  • Toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, contact solution, toilet paper)
  • Pencils and Paper
  • Pet Supplies (food, litter)
  • Rain Gear
  • Sleeping Bag
  • Change of Clothes
  • Plastic Garbage Bags
  • Face Masks
  • Gloves
  • Hand Sanitizer
  • Cleaning Wipes

• Have a “Go Bag”: Having an emergency bag packed with essentials (food, clothes, toiletries, cash, etc.) can save you time in a crisis. P.S. A little bit of toilet paper goes a long way…
• Gather Your Important Papers: Keep all special papers and photographs in a watertight container or plastic bag. You know, all of those important things like bank account papers, birth certificates, property deeds, medical cards, social security cards, etc. as well as photos and important keepsakes which can never be replaced. During a disaster, they could all be ruined and washed away forever in one whoosh!
  • Identification (copy of driver’s license or passport)
  • Insurance Policies
  • Birth Certificates
  • Marriage Certificates
  • Proof of Residence (copy of lease, mortgage documents)
  • Deeds or Wills
  • Tax Returns
  • Social Security Cards
• Plan for Your Pets: Many hotels and motels won’t accommodate your pets, so if your plan is to evacuate to a hotel, then you’ll need to find them a safe boarding kennels or cattery which is outside of the disaster’s impact zone. Be sure you have plenty of your pet’s preferred food and whatever medications they might need.
• Refill Your Medications: Make sure that you have plenty of your prescription medicines on hand. If a disaster hits your area, the last thing you want to worry about is a medical emergency. 
• Disaster Insurance: Check your insurance coverage as part of your disaster preparedness plan. Many home insurance policies do not cover hazards like flooding caused by hurricanes, for example. If you live in a disaster-prone area, consider getting insurance to cover damages.
• Have a Plan for After the Disaster: After a disaster, get out of town until emergency services and law enforcement have gotten control of the situation. Unfortunately, like many other disaster situations, there are people who will try to take advantage of the chaos. It’s best to avoid being in the disaster zone until things are under control.

What is a Blizzard?

A blizzard is a type of winter storm that has winds of at least 35 mph and blowing snow that reduces visibility to less than a quarter of a mile. Blizzards can occur after a snowfall, when high winds pick up the already fallen snow and create whiteouts as it blows around the area, or when wind creates snowdrifts that decrease visibility even further.

It is important to prepare for a blizzard because it can paralyze cities with its strong winds and heavy snow accumulation. It can also cause street and interstate closures, loss of internet and cable, power outages, as well as strand motorists due to decreased visibility from all the blowing snow. Therefore it is important to take steps ahead of time in order to stay warm and safe during this type of severe winter storm.

Consider purchasing the following items to help you during a blizzard:

 

What to Consider When Preparing for a Blizzard

1. Home Safety Check

A home safety check is a process of preparing your home for bad weather. It includes tasks such as applying weatherstripping to doors and windows, caulking any air gaps, insulating your pipes, clearing your rain gutters, having heating equipment inspected and trimming tree branches that could fall onto the home in heavy snow or strong winds.

It is important to perform a home safety check before bad weather arrives because it can help prevent potential hazards such as pipes from freezing or damage from falling branches. Additionally it ensures that you have all the necessary supplies in case of an extended power outage (such as batteries for radios and flashlights). By taking the time to do a thorough check of your home before winter hits you can ensure that everything is prepared for any potential blizzard situations that may arise this season.

2. Snow Removal Supplies

When preparing for a blizzard, it is important to have the necessary supplies to ensure snow removal after the storm. The following items should be considered:

– Ice melt salt: This will help melt ice and prevent it from turning into an icy mess once the temperature drops again.

– Snow shovels: Make sure they are in good condition and have been properly maintained so they can easily handle any amount of snow that may pile up.

 

– Tool Kit: Include pliers, wrenches, screwdrivers and other tools that may be needed during emergency situations such as turning off utilities quickly.

3. Winter Storm Preparation Kit

A winter storm preparation kit is a collection of supplies and items that you can use to prepare for an impending blizzard or other type of winter storm. It should include items such as warm clothing, food and water supplies, flashlights, batteries, blankets or sleeping bags, candles or lanterns for light sources.

It is important to have a winter storm preparation kit ready before an emergency strikes in order to ensure that you have the essentials needed in case of loss of power or heat. Having these items pre-prepared will help reduce stress during an emergency situation as well as provide comfort if you need to stay home for several days without power or need to leave quickly due to severe weather conditions. Furthermore, having an up-to-date kit will help ensure that all members of your household are prepared with essential items they may need during difficult times ahead.

4. Heating Sources

When heating sources are used during a blizzard, it is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for safe operation and maintenance, as well as having thermometers to monitor the temperature inside the home. It is also recommended that you have a multipurpose dry chemical fire extinguisher near any heating sources and check them regularly for functionality. Additionally, it is wise to purchase an adequate supply of emergency fuel before storms begin in order to ensure availability if needed.

It is important not to use cooking appliances as heat sources during blizzards, since they can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning or other health issues if used improperly. Candles should also be avoided since they present a fire hazard when unattended; instead opt for battery-powered LED lights which are safer alternatives with energy efficiency benefits. Lastly, make sure you have extra firewood on hand just in case there are power outages so that you can still heat your home safely through extreme temperatures without having any interruptions in service

5. Emergency Supply Kit

An emergency supply kit is a collection of items that can be used in an emergency. It should include first aid supplies, non-prescription medicines, flashlights, extra batteries, maps and cash or traveler’s checks. It should also include items such as blankets and sleeping bags for comfort during power outages.

It is important to prepare for a blizzard because storms can cause power outages that leave you without access to essential necessities such as food and water. Having an emergency supply kit ready will ensure that you have the necessary supplies to survive until help arrives or the weather improves enough for you to leave safely. Additionally, having a NOAA Weather Radio will allow you stay informed about any potential dangers from the storm such as high winds or flooding so that you can take appropriate safety measures if necessary.

6. Flashlights and Lamps

Flashlights and lamps are both useful for providing light during a blizzard. Flashlights are smaller and more portable, but provide less illumination than lamps. Lamps can provide more light, but they require electricity which may not be available during a blizzard.

When considering flashlights or lamps for use during a blizzard, it is important to choose models that have high lumens ratings so they can illuminate large areas. It is also important to choose LED bulbs since these will last longer without needing replacement batteries than incandescent bulbs would. Additionally, make sure any flashlight or lamp you purchase has an adjustable beam so you can adjust it from wide to narrow depending on the situation.

7. Weather Alerts and Warnings

Weather alerts and warnings are notifications issued by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to inform the public about potential hazardous weather conditions. A winter storm advisory indicates that there may be hazardous weather conditions due to a winter storm, while a winter storm watch indicates that conditions are likely to become hazardous due to a winter storm. Lastly, a winter storm warning means that immediate action is needed as severe weather is imminent.

These types of alerts can help individuals prepare for blizzard conditions by knowing what type of warning has been issued in their area and taking appropriate action accordingly. It’s important for individuals to know how long they have before the dangerous weather hits so they can make informed decisions about travel or other activities outdoors during this time period. Additionally, staying up-to-date on local news reports will provide valuable information about potential blizzard threats in your area so you can better prepare for them if necessary.

 

 

8. Hypothermia Protection

Hypothermia is a condition in which the body’s temperature becomes abnormally low, resulting in decreased brain function. It can be caused by prolonged exposure to cold temperatures or by failure to adequately warm up after being exposed to cold. It can also be brought on by medical conditions such as diabetes, alcoholism and certain medications. Frostbite is an injury caused by exposure to extreme cold that results in loss of feeling and white skin discoloration.

When preparing for a blizzard, it is important to know how to protect yourself from hypothermia and frostbite. This includes checking the forecast regularly, knowing how to turn off your utilities in an emergency if necessary, researching local shelters/warming stations nearby before the storm hits so you have options if necessary; knowing the signs of both conditions so you can check on neighbors who may be more vulnerable during extreme cold weather; making sure you have enough supplies such as food/water/warm clothes etc.; staying indoors when possible; wearing layers instead of single heavy garments (e.g., wool sweaters instead of down jackets); avoiding alcohol consumption since it impairs judgment which makes it harder for people to recognize their own symptoms of hypothermia or frostbite; keeping active; and having emergency blankets.

9. Cold Weather Clothing

There are a variety of types of cold weather clothing available for preparation for a blizzard. Clothing should be warm, layered, and waterproof. Items such as hats, gloves, boots and masks or scarves to cover your mouth are essential to protect against frostbite. Additionally, it is important to wear loose-fitting layers that are waterproof so that you remain warm and dry during harsh winter conditions. Boots should be specifically designed for snow conditions in order to provide maximum traction while shoveling or walking on slick surfaces.

10. Storm Survival Skills

Storm survival skills are the skills and knowledge needed to survive during a storm. They include things like stocking up on food, water, and medication; preparing an emergency kit; bringing pets inside; using rock salt or sand to prevent slippery conditions; having a shovel available for snow removal; staying informed about weather forecasts; and more.

Having these skills can help prepare you for any blizzard by providing essential items such as food, water, medication, heat sources, blankets etc., as well as helping you stay safe during potentially dangerous conditions. Having these skills also gives you peace of mind knowing that you have everything you need if an emergency strikes.

The 5 Essential Items You Need to Survive a Blizzard

1. Supplies

For surviving a blizzard, it is essential to have a three-day supply of nonperishable foods and bottled water on hand. It is also helpful to stock up on hygiene items such as diapers, toilet paper, tampons and toothpaste. Additionally, it may be beneficial to pick up moist toilettes in case water is in short supply. Other supplies to have on hand include: blankets or sleeping bags for warmth; battery-powered radio or television for news updates; flashlights with extra batteries; first aid kit with essential medications such as pain relievers and antiseptic wipes; candles or oil lamps with wicks and matches; canned food that does not require electricity for preparation (such as granola bars). It’s also wise to have extra warm clothing items like hats, mittens/gloves or scarves for added protection from the elements during blizzards.

 

2. Heating Sources

During a blizzard, there are a variety of heating sources that can be used to keep warm and safe. These include:

– Fireplaces or wood stoves, which should be regularly inspected and maintained by a professional

– Generators, which should only be used outside with sufficient ventilation

– Chimney or flue inspections for all heating sources

– Thermometers to help seniors notice problems even when they do not feel it

– Smoke and carbon monoxide alarms that need to be tested regularly

– Multipurpose dry chemical fire extinguishers near fireplaces, stoves, and other heating sources; these need to be examined regularly to ensure they’re in good working order

– Oil/propane supplies for those who use them; it’s important to have an adequate supply if stormy weather has started but waiting too long could make supplies limited during blizzards

3. Shelter

The best shelter to survive a blizzard is one that is near you, has enough supplies and power, and can withstand extreme weather conditions.

To find the nearest shelter in your area, text SHELTER + your ZIP code to 43352 (4FEMA). FEMA will then text you the location of the nearest shelter. It’s also important to make sure that your family has enough supplies for an extended period of time without power or heat.

4. Safety Equipment

When preparing for a blizzard, it is important to ensure that you have the necessary safety equipment to survive the storm. This includes:

• A snow shovel to clear pathways and exit routes.

• Warm clothing such as gloves, hats, scarves and boots to keep you warm in cold temperatures.

• A flashlight or lantern with extra batteries in case power goes out during the storm.

• Food supplies such as canned goods, water bottles and non-perishable items that do not require cooking or refrigeration.

• Candles or oil lamps for light in case of power outage during the storm.

5. Food and Drink

Food and drink that are essential for surviving a blizzard include:

• Emergency Food Supplies

• 3-day supply of drinking water

• Trail mix

• Canned soup

• Nut butter

• Protein bars

• Dry pasta

• Hot chocolate mix

• Canned beans (great for protein)

• Jerky

6. Storm Preparedness Kit

A storm preparedness kit is a collection of supplies and items that can be used in an emergency situation. It should include items such as first aid supplies, non-prescription medications, flashlights, extra batteries, local maps, cash or traveler’s checks, copies of important family documents (such as insurance policies and identification), a fire extinguisher, matches in a waterproof container candles blankets sleeping bags garbage bags manual can opener leashes harnesses pet carriers etc.

It is important to have a storm preparedness kit ready before a blizzard hits because it will ensure that you have the essentials needed for survival during an emergency situation. Having these items readily available will make it easier for you to navigate through difficult conditions until help arrives or the storm passes. Additionally having these items in one or two easy-to-go suitcases will allow you to quickly evacuate if necessary without having to search around for everything at once

7. Personal Protection

The essential items for personal protection during a blizzard include:

– Warm clothes, such as gloves, hats, scarves and waterproof jackets.

– Emergency supplies such as food, water and flashlights.

– A snow shovel for clearing pathways or driveways.

– Candles or other sources of light in case power goes out.

8. Disaster Kit

A disaster kit is a collection of items that can be used in an emergency situation. It should include first aid items, non-prescription medications, flashlights and batteries, maps, cash or traveler’s checks, copies of important family documents (such as insurance policies and identification), a fire extinguisher, matches in a waterproof container (for starting fires), candles (to provide light during power outages), blankets and sleeping bags.

It is important to have a disaster kit prepared before a blizzard strikes because it will help ensure you are able to stay safe during an emergency situation. Having access to essential items like food supplies and water will make it easier for you to survive until help arrives or the storm passes. Additionally having items such as leashes/harnesses/pet carriers will make it easier for you to evacuate with your pet if necessary.

9. Communication Equipment

Communication equipment is any device or tool used to transmit and receive information. In a blizzard, communication equipment can be vital for survival as it allows people to stay in touch with friends, family members, emergency services, and other sources of help.

Having access to communication equipment during a blizzard is important because it gives you the ability to stay informed about potential threats such as avalanches or flash flooding. It also allows you to reach out for help if needed so that you can get rescued quickly if stranded in an area without cell phone reception. Additionally, having communication equipment can help families stay connected during bad weather events when traditional methods of communication may not be available due to power outages or downed lines.

10. Winter Storm Prep Resources

Resources available for preparing for a winter storm include:

– The Government: The Ready.gov website provides information on how to prepare and recover from winter storms, while the National Child Trauma Stress Network offers resources on disasters and your family.

– The Weather Channel: This channel offers 14 steps you should take to prepare for a winter storm, as well as videos about what to do during a blizzard and if you’re stuck on the road.

– American Red Cross: The American Red Cross provides information on Winter Storm Safety as well as videos about what to do in case of an emergency during a blizzard or ice storm.

– EPA/EPA Indoor Air Quality: EPA’s Indoor Air Quality website provides helpful tips on reducing indoor air pollution during power outages caused by winter storms.

How to Prepare Yourself for Extreme Weather Conditions

1. Bring Supplies

When preparing for extreme weather conditions, you should make sure to have a supply kit for your home, work and car. The kit should include jumper cables, sand or rocks for traction in snow or ice; a flashlight; warm clothes, blankets and sleeping bags; bottled water and non-perishable snacks; prescription medications; hygiene items such as diapers, toilet paper and tampons; moist towelettes in case there is limited access to water.

2. Stay Informed

Staying informed about weather forecasts can help prepare you for extreme weather conditions. It is important to stay up-to-date on any potential winter storms in your area and know what actions to take in order to be prepared.

By staying informed, you can prepare for an impending storm by spreading rock salt or sand on driveways and sidewalks to avoid slippery conditions, keeping a shovel handy, packing an emergency kit with food and water supplies for yourself and pets, having extra batteries on hand for your flashlight/radio/batteries etc., having documents copied that may be needed during an emergency situation, bringing your animals indoors if they are outdoors when a storm is approaching etc..

3. Prepare Your Home

1. Insulate and caulk: Insulate your home’s walls and fill any gaps in the caulking around windows, doors, and other openings to keep cold air out.

2. Weather Stripping: Install weather stripping around doors and windows to prevent cold air from seeping in through cracks around them.

3. Keep pipes from freezing: Make sure there is enough heat coming from your furnace or boiler system to keep water pipes from freezing during extreme cold temperatures or prolonged power outages.

4. Install smoke alarms & carbon monoxide detectors: Ensure that you have working smoke alarms installed throughout your home as well as a carbon monoxide detector for safety purposes during extreme winter weather conditions or prolonged power outages; these should be tested regularly before winter arrives so they are up-to-date with batteries when needed in an emergency situation..

5. Gather supplies: Stock up on supplies such as blankets , flashlights, candles, extra batteries, food items that don’t require refrigeration/heating (such as canned goods), first aid kit etc., in case you need to stay indoors for several days without power due to severe weather conditions or other reasons..

4. Have a Storm Kit

A storm kit is a collection of items that people can use to prepare for an impending storm. It includes first aid supplies, non-prescription medications, flashlights, extra batteries, maps and cash or traveler’s checks. It can also include items such as a whistle to signal for help, fire extinguishers and matches in a waterproof container.

It is important to have a storm kit during extreme weather conditions because it provides you with the necessary items needed in case of an emergency. Having these items readily available will ensure that you are better prepared if there is an unexpected weather event or other type of disaster strikes your area. Additionally having a 3-day supply of food and water as well as heating fuel can help ensure your safety during these difficult times when resources may be limited or unavailable altogether.

5. Get Winter Weather Alerts

1. Pay attention to weather reports and warnings of freezing weather and winter storms.

2. Listen for emergency information and alerts, such as the Emergency Alert System (EAS) and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Weather Radio.

3. Sign up for your community’s warning system if available, so you can receive updates about hazardous weather conditions in your area 24 hours in advance or more depending on the system used in your area.

4. Download an app such as the Red Cross Emergency app for Android or iPhone to get real-time alerts for snowstorms, tornados, flooding, and other extreme weather events in your region at no cost..

5. Check local government websites for updates on blizzard safety plans, emergency numbers, etc.

6. Prepare Your Vehicle

1. Get a winter tune-up: Have your vehicle checked by a mechanic to ensure that it is in good working order and all of the parts are functioning properly in extreme weather conditions.

2. Pack an emergency kit for your car: Include items such as jumper cables, ice melt, flashlights, warm clothes, blankets and water in case you get stuck on the road due to bad weather conditions or skidding occurs.

3. Keep gas tank full at all times: Make sure you have enough fuel to last during any prolonged traffic delays caused by snowstorms or other inclement weather events..

4 . Drive cautiously : Slowing down when driving in bad weather conditions is essential for safety purposes; therefore drive slowly and be aware of any potential dangers that may arise due to poor visibility or slippery surfaces due to ice patches etc..

7. Have Emergency Supplies

When preparing for extreme weather conditions, it is important to have an emergency supply kit ready. It should include items such as jumper cables, sandbags or barriers to block floodwaters, a flashlight and extra batteries, warm clothes and blankets, bottled water and non-perishable snacks. It is also wise to waterproof some items that could be ruined by water in airtight plastic bags. Additionally, it is beneficial to put everything in your kit into one or two easy-to-go suitcases in case you need to leave quickly. Items such as first aid items, battery powered NOAA weather radios with extra batteries; flashlights with extra batteries; whistles for signaling help; local maps; cash or traveler’s checks; copies of important family documents (such as insurance policies and identification); fire extinguishers; matches in waterproof containers/bags should also be included in the kit if necessary.

8. Have Survival Equipment

Survival equipment should include:

– First aid items such as bandages, pain relievers, anti-diarrhea medication, etc.

– Flashlights and extra batteries.

– A NOAA Weather Radio or another device that can receive local weather reports.

– Cash or traveler’s checks to pay for emergency services or supplies if needed.

– Copies of important family documents (insurance policies, identification cards etc.).

– A fire extinguisher to help put out any fires that may start due to extreme weather conditions.

– Matches in a waterproof container for use with candles or other heat sources during power outages.

9. Stay Indoors

1. Stay indoors as much as possible during extreme weather conditions. If you must go outside, wear layers of warm, loose-fitting clothing to protect yourself from frostbite and hypothermia.

2. Make sure all heating sources are vented to the outside and clear of any debris or buildup that could potentially cause a fire hazard.

3. Avoid driving when possible, but if you must drive make sure you have an emergency kit in your car with items such as blankets, flashlights/lanterns, food/water supplies etcetera for safety purposes in case of an emergency situation arising out on the roadways due to bad weather conditions or other unforeseen circumstances that may affect travel safety in your area during this time period..

4. Open kitchen cabinets and bathroom cabinets to allow warm air to circulate around pipes which can help prevent them from freezing over during extreme cold temperatures.

10. Follow Storm Warnings

Storm warnings can help people prepare for extreme weather conditions by providing up-to-date information about potential winter storms and blizzards.

By staying alert to these warnings and taking the appropriate steps to be prepared, people can reduce their risk of being affected by severe weather conditions. This includes making sure everyone in the household knows where to meet in case of separation during a storm or blizzard, as well as having an emergency contact list handy.