Blizzards, snow storms and other winter-related disasters cause more than delays and destruction each year – they can also cause death. If you live in an area known for its dangerous winter storms, it's crucial to be prepared for the worst before it happens to you. Having a winter weather safety kit with you this season can directly impact your chances of survival during a severe storm. Learn what to put in your winter safety kit with these tips from ServiceMaster Restore.
What to Have in an Emergency Kit for Winter For the Home
You spend most of your time at home with your family. Protect those closest to you, and load up your home winter weather emergency kit with the following items:
- Salt, or a similar product that can melt ice on walkways
- Sand to improve traction in the event you need to leave
- Snow shovels and other snow removal equipment in case you need to clear a snow-blocked door or walkway
- Heating fuel and equipment in case your regular fuel source is cut off
- Clothing and blankets for each family member
- First aid supplies, essential medications and necessary personal hygiene items
- Non-perishable food and water to last at least 3 days, in case you get snowed in
- Flashlights and plenty of batteries
- Portable chargers for cell phones in case the power goes out
- A battery-operated or crank radio to get news and weather updates
Store these items in a sturdy, waterproof container, and then place the kit in an area that is easily accessible in the event of a storm. For the Car If you're caught driving in a snowstorm, be prepared to sit and wait until the roads clear up. Your car emergency kit should include essential item, such as:
- Flashlights
- Batteries
- Blankets
- First aid kit
- Water bottles
- Non-perishable food
- Tire chains
- Ice scraper
- Snow shovel
- Jumper cables
- Road flares
- Extra fuel
- Cellphone charger
- A battery-operated or crank radio
- Gloves, hats, and boots
- Spare jackets
For the Office
If you're stuck at work when the weather hits, make sure you're prepared to hunker down in comfort. Items in your work emergency kit should include:
- Non-perishable food
- Water
- A complete change of warm clothes
- Boots, gloves and a jacket
- Personal hygiene items
- Essential medications
- First aid kit
- A battery-operated or crank radio
- Flashlights
- Batteries
Getting stuck during a winter storm is common. Make sure you're prepared wherever you go by packing winter safety kits for your home, car and office. Check out Ready.gov for more ideas on how to prepare for winter, including emergency kit tips and resources. If disaster does strike your area, know that the experts at ServiceMaster Restore are here to help. Our expert teams offer disaster recovery services 24/7/365 to help you through any crisis as safely and smoothly as possible. Contact our experts today to learn more.