American Red Cross Severe Weather Safety

Winter Storm Safety Checklist

Winter storms can range from a moderate snow over a few hours to a blizzard with blinding, wind-driven snow that lasts for several days.  Some winter storms are large enough to affect several states, while others affect only a single community.  Many winter storms are accompanied by dangerously low temperatures and sometimes by strong winds, icing, sleet and freezing rain.

What should I do?

• Dress in several layers of lightweight clothing, war mittens and a hat (preferably one that covers your ears).
• Wear waterproof, insulated boots to keep your feet warm and dry and to maintain your footing in ice and snow.
• Minimize travel.  If travel is necessary, keep a disaster supplies kit in your vehicle.
• Listen to a NOAA Weather Radio or other local news channels for critical information from the National Weather Service (NWS).
• Winterize your vehicle and keep the gas tank full.  A full tank will keep the fuel line from freezing.
• Insulate your home by installing storm windows or covering windows with plastic from the inside to keep cold air out.
• Maintain heating equipment and chimneys by having them cleaned and inspected every year.
• Bring pets/companion animals inside during winter weather.  Move other animals or livestock to sheltered areas with non-frozen drinking water.
• Running water, even at a trickle, helps prevent pipes from freezing.
• All fuel-burning equipment should be vented to the outside and kept clear.

What supplies to I need?

• Water - at least a 3 day supply; one gallon per person per day
• Food - at least a 3 day supply of non-perishable, easy-to-prepare food
• Flashlight
• Batter-powered or hand-crank radio (NOAA Weather Radio, if possible)
• Extra batteries
• First aid kit
• Medications (7 day supply) and medical items (hearing aids with extra batteries, glasses, contact lenses, syringes, cane)
• Multi-purpose tool
• Sanitation and personal hygiene items
• Copies of personal documents (medication list and pertinent medical information, proof of address, deed/lease to home, passports, birth certificates, insurance policies)
• Cell phone with chargers
• Family and emergency contact information
• Extra cash
• Baby supplies (bottles, formula, baby food, diapers)
• Pet supplies (collar, leash, ID, food, carrier, bowl)
• Tools/supplies for securing your home
• Sand, rock salt or non-clumping kitty litter to make walkways and steps less slippery
• Warm coats, gloves or mittens, hats, boots and extra blankets and warm clothing for all household members
• Ample alternate heating methods such as fireplaces or wood - or coal-burning stoves

What do I do after a storm?

• Go to a designated public shelter if your home loses power or heat during periods of extreme cold.
• Avoid driving when conditions include sleet, freezing rain or drizzle, snow or dense fog
• Before tackling strenuous tasks in cold temperatures, considerr your physical condition, the weather factors and the nature of the task
• Protect yourself from frostbite and hypothermia by wearing warm, loose-fitting, lightweight clothing in several layers.  Stay indoors, if possible.
• Help people who require special assistance such as elderly people living alone, people with disabilities and children
• Check on your animals and make sure that their access to food and water is not blocked by snow drifts, ice or other obstacles.  If possible, bring them indoors.

Caution:  Carbon Monoxide Kills

• Never use a generator, grill, camp stove or other gasoline, propane, natural gas or charcoal-burning devices inside a home, garage, basement, crawlspace or other partially enclosed area.  Locate unit away from doors, windows and vents that could allow carbon monoxide to come indoors.   
• The primary hazards to avoid when using alternate sources for electricity, heating or cooking are carbon monoxide poisoning, electric shock and fire.
• Install carbon monoxide alarms in central locations on every level of your home and outside sleeping areas to provide early warning of accumulating carbon monoxide.
• If the carbon monoxide alarm sounds, move quickly to a fresh air location outdoors or by an open window or door.
• Call for help from the fresh air location and remain there until emergency personnel arrive to assist you.

Let your family know you are safe

If your community experiences a severe winter storm, or any disaster, register on the American Red Cross Safe and Well Web site available through RedCross.org to let your family and friends know about your welfare.  If you don't have Internet access, call 1-866-GET-INFO to register yourself and your family.