🌨️ Why Winter Storms Are So Dangerous
- Whiteouts reduce visibility to near zero—driving becomes impossible
- Rapid Snow Accumulation can collapse roofs, block exits, or trap vehicles
- Freezing Rain & Ice Storms bring power outages, car crashes, and impassable roads
- Carbon Monoxide Risk: Generators and heaters can be deadly if used incorrectly
- Isolation: Roads can be blocked for days, especially in rural areas
🚗 Special Note: If You're Trapped in Your Car During a Blizzard
- Stay inside your vehicle—it’s your best shelter
- Run the engine only 10 minutes per hour for heat, and crack a window slightly
- Clear snow from the exhaust pipe to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning
- Keep interior lights on at night so rescuers can see you
- Use floor mats or clothes for extra insulation
- Drink water to avoid dehydration (you may not feel thirsty in the cold)
- DO NOT try to walk for help unless you're 100% certain shelter is visible and nearby
🎒 Winter Storm Essentials: What to Keep On Hand
🏠 Home Supplies
- Flashlights, lanterns, and extra batteries
- 3–7 days of food and stored drinking water
- Emergency heat source (kerosene, propane, or wood) with proper ventilation
- Backup phone power banks or solar chargers
- Blankets, sleeping bags, and extra warm clothing
- Snow shovel, salt, sand, or kitty litter for traction
- Fire extinguisher (space heaters increase fire risk)
🚗 Vehicle Kit
- Mylar blankets & hand warmers
- Windshield scraper & snow brush
- Jumper cables, tow rope
- Emergency food, bottled water
- Flashlight with red SOS setting
- Reflective triangles or LED flares
- First aid kit, extra socks & gloves
🚪 Shelter or Evacuate?
🏠 Shelter In Place If:
- Roads are closed or unsafe
- Power is on OR you have safe alternative heat
- You have at least 3–5 days of supplies
🏃♂️ Evacuate If:
- Power is out and temperatures are dangerously low
- Your home becomes structurally unsafe (roof collapse, gas leak)
- Authorities advise leaving before the storm worsens
⏳ You may be isolated for 24 hours to 5+ days, depending on snowfall and power grid impact.
👨👩👧👦 Family Winter Safety Tips
- Keep phones charged and offline maps downloaded
- Bring pets inside before temperatures drop
- Never use outdoor heaters or BBQs indoors
- If power goes out, bundle everyone into one room with blankets and layers
- Designate a safe place to relieve yourself without water (bucket with garbage bag liner, etc.)
✅ Trusted Winter Storm Resources
