Winter Storm, Blizzard and Ice Storm Survival

BEFORE 1. Winterize the home: weather-strip/insulate, caulk windows, reverse ceiling fans, have chimneys cleaned, and know how to shut off water if pipes burst. 2. Pipe care: let faucets drip during deep freezes; open cabinet doors under sinks to let warm air reach pipes. If a pipe freezes, shut the main valve before thawing. 3. Kit: high-calorie food that needs no cooking, water, battery radio, flashlights, extra batteries, a carbon monoxide detector (lives), sleeping bags, blankets, pet supplies. 4. Vehicles: keep at least half a tank; kit with blanket, jumper cables, sand/kitty litter, shovel, phone charger, snacks, water. KEEP YOUR HOUSE WARMISH IF POWER GOES OUT - Pick ONE small interior room to live in (easier to heat). Hang blankets over windows; roll a towel under the door. - Stack on layers — loose, light, multiple beats one heavy coat. Hats and socks matter. - Safe heat ONLY: a wood/gas fireplace with proper ventilation. NEVER use a grill, oven, generator or charcoal indoors — carbon monoxide is silent and deadly. Run generators 20+ ft from windows. - If hypothermia sets in (shivering stops, confusion, drowsiness): warm the core FIRST with blankets/body heat, warm drinks if awake. Call 911. IF YOU MUST DRIVE - Tell someone your route and ETA. Bring a charged phone, full kit, and SLOW DOWN — most winter crashes are speed-related. - If stranded: stay in the car (it is your shelter). Tie a bright cloth to the antenna. Run engine 10 min/hour for heat, crack a downwind window, clear exhaust pipe of snow to prevent CO poisoning. Move around to keep warm.