Prepare for Winter Emergencies

What would you do if a winter emergency kept you stranded in your home? Would you be prepared to care for yourself and you family? The following information is designed to help you to be prepared and be safe.

It is important to consider the possibility of an emergency before and emergency strikes.

Wrap water pipes to prevent freezing. Put plastic over windows. Blankets over windows are excellent for keeping out drafts. Making sure that your home is well insulated ahead of time will help to conserve precious heat if power is lost.

There are several things that should be kept on hand in case of a winter emergency. It’s a good idea to have things like rock salt or sand and snow shovels to keep walkways safe if you need to leave your house. But in a true emergency situation where travel is impossible it is best to stay inside.

Make sure you have extra heating fuel like fire wood, kerosene or propane and an emergency source of heat because it is likely that you will lose power. Be sure you have adequate ventilation and always refill kerosene heaters outside. Keep kerosene heaters at least 3 feet away from anything flammable and be sure that you have a fire extinguisher on hand. Close off any rooms that are not being used. Stuff towels or rags under doors and cover windows with plastic or blankets to keep the chill out.

A disaster supply kit should also be ready. Include items like first aid supplies and extra medications, batteries, a radio and a flashlight. Extra warm clothing and blankets are also wise to have. A more extensive list of supplies for your first aid kit can be found at http://www.redcross.org . Look under Get Prepared.

Have at least one gallon of water per person per day. Plan to have enough for at least three days. Include ready to eat canned foods and a can opener and baby food, formula and diapers if you have a baby. And don’t forget your pets! Be sure they have water, food and a shelter that is dry if you can’t bring them inside with you.

A little preparation ahead of time can save you disaster later. Sit down with your family and discuss what other things you will need for your own supply kit. Make a list. Then relax and know that you are ready for a winter emergency in your home.