Blizzard survival means being prepared ahead ahead of inclement weather. Blizzards and snow storms can cause power shortages, treacherous roadways, and sub-zero temperatures, and if you’re not properly prepared, you may be caught in a dangerous situation.

Given this past weekend’s bomb cyclone that severely impacted much of New England and sent blizzard warnings down the entire east coast, here are eight blizzard survival tips that can help you better prepare and be ready for the next storm.

Eight Tips to Stay Safe During a Blizzard

1. Avoid possible whiteout conditions by staying off the roads and remaining indoors until local government authorities say it’s safe to resume driving.
2. Prepare an emergency kit for your home and car. Make sure your kit includes emergency equipment like flashlights, extra batteries, some non-perishable food items, a bottle of water and a battery-operated radio so you can keep track of the weather in the event you’re stranded in your car or in your home without power. It’s also a good idea to keep a sleeping bag or wool blanket in each of your emergency kits.
3. If you lose heat in your home, make sure you know how to use an alternative form of heat such as a kerosene heater or fireplace. Just make sure you practice safe fire handling practices and maintain proper and correct ventilation. Never use any form of heater without the right ventilation.
4. Before the storm hits, take the time to insulate your pipes to keep water flowing and prevent pipes from freezing.
5. Fully charge your cell phone before the storm hits.
6. Always keep plenty of non-perishable food items on hand such as canned goods and food products that don’t need to be heated. Bread, fruits, etc. can stand being at room temperature for a few days. Don’t forget pet supplies as well.
7. Just in case your water supply gets cut-off or contaminated during a blizzard, it’s a good idea to have a supply of clean drinking water on hand. Keep at least 10 gallons of water on hand, more if you have a large number of household members.
8. Staying warm is critical in the event of a blizzard. Prevent hypothermia from occurring by wearing loose, warm, layered clothing. Things like mittens and multi layers of wool socks and a good warm winter blanket are essentials.

All of us at Security Specialists Want You to Stay Safe This Winter!