Winter is almost here and with that comes the cold weather, holiday cheers, and blizzards. Not trying to dampen your Christmas spirit here but we just want you to know that winter storms are possible. Most importantly, you must know what to do to prepare for a blizzard if indeed one comes along. We’re already dealing with the prospect of a gloomy Christmas with the coronavirus pandemic still hovering over our heads. It won’t hurt if we have one less thing to worry about by knowing what to do before, during and after such emergencies. Read on for some valuable tips to prepare for a blizzard.
Develop A Blizzard Emergency Plan
The key to surviving an emergency is to know what you can about the potential emergency. In the case of a blizzard, you’re dealing with one of the most dangerous types of winter storm. These natural disasters are characterized by heavy volume of snow, strong sustained winds, and …
In the late 1880s, a number of blizzards caused ravaged the country. The most horrific ones were the Schoolhouse Blizzard and the Great Blizzard of 1888. The former is called such because it claimed 235 lives including many children going home from school. The latter resulted in the deaths of 400 people including many of those aboard the 200 ships that were sunk by the strong winds.
In 1960, a blizzard known as the Storm of the Century crossed 22 states leaving 383 people dead and an estimated $70 million worth of damages. In 2015, a winter storm passed through Central and Eastern United States claiming thirty lives.
These are just a few examples of blizzards that have wreaked havoc in the country. As you can see, it can get really bad. That is why creating your blizzard emergency plan is tantamount to survival.
Get Alerts
Imagine if people back in the 1880s knew in advance if a blizzard was coming. Those schoolchildren who perished wouldn’t be at school or at least have been sent home early.
You need to be a step ahead to survive a disaster. Once you get wind of an incoming natural phenomenon such as a winter storm, you have to stay glued to the news. If the forecast says the blizzard is headed your way, you need to act fast to further prepare once it hits your area.
Check with your local government how you can sign up for local weather alerts and warnings. Also, invest on a weather alert radio. This kind of radio will notify you about the weather conditions in your area and give off warnings. The NOAA Weather Radio, for example, is a network of stations that provide weather news continuously.
The Kaito KA500 Voyager Solar Radio provides emergency weather alerts from all seven NOAA bands. The survival tool also comes with AM/FM radio and LED flashlight with a blinking red light mode for distress calls. The Kaito KA500 has a solar panel for solar charging, USB port, AA battery dock, a crank for hand charging, and a wall charger.
Create An Emergency Communication Plan
You can’t pinpoint where you will be once disaster strikes. While staying up-to-date should give you enough time to come home or gather in a safer location, there may be instances that the family will be separated. When this happens, you need a way to communicate with your loved ones.
What To Do
Assign all important contact numbers on speed dial. Save the numbers for medical and police assistance aside from your own contact details. Write them down on a piece of paper and keep it in your wallets. Laminate them if you wish. It would be better if everyone can memorize the numbers, too.
Practice what you need to say if you have to make a call. Always mention your exact address or location first so in case the call gets cut, they know where to send help. Remind everyone to use these numbers only for emergencies and never for prank calls.
Another thing, it’s a good idea to ask a relative or close friend from out of state to call everyone in case of an emergency in your area. That person will check on each of you and relay whatever information they gather to help everyone get to safety. At the same time, if you can’t contact a family member, try calling this designated person to check if they’ve heard anything from the others.
Communication Tools
The foremost form of communication nowadays is the smartphone. Everyone in the family most likely has a smartphone except the younger ones. Make sure phones are fully charged before heading out. Ideally, each of you should have a powerbank or solar charger.
The QuickHeat Rechargeable Hand Warmer with Portable Power Bank by Frog & CO is perfect for this situation. It charges your phone or other small devices wherever you are as well as a hand warmer to help you fight off the cold. The survival tool provides 104 to 140 degrees Fahrenheit of heat. It’s not enough in dangerously cold temperatures but combined with other heating options, it should help you survive.
It’s possible that the power or internet grid goes down during a disaster. Aside from the difficulty charging your devices, phone reception may be poor or gone. Your next best ways to communicate is through a landline phone, CB radio, HAM radio, or two-way radio.
The BaoFeng Tech BF-F8HP HAM Radio and similar tools are must-haves for any home. Aside from having more reliable communication, it also has FM radio to keep you entertained during turbulent times. You need to pass a test to get a license to use it, though. But that shouldn’t be a problem.
Devise An Evacuation Plan
Part of any disaster preparedness plan is to know when, how and where to evacuate. We’re not just talking blizzards here. This applies to any potentially dangerous situation including other natural disasters and man-made horrors such as mass shooting, terrorist attack, and a nuclear meltdown. The bottom point is that you must have an exit strategy in case shit hits the fan.
Assign certain tasks that each family member has to do when you have to evacuate. That means someone will be in charge of locking up, getting important items such as documents, grabbing the pet and pet bag, helping the elderly, or other particular tasks.
Prepare Your Bug Out Vehicle
You need a designated driver. If you have a big household and need more than one vehicle to evacuate everyone, make sure someone else knows how to drive. In fact, you should teach everyone even your teenaged kids how to drive even if they can’t get a license yet. Of course, this is not an invitation for them to take your car out when you’re not looking. They can only take the wheel in an emergency.
Keep your vehicles well-maintained and the fuel tank full. Take your car to the mechanic before winter comes. Have them replace your regular tires with snow tires. They should check the oil, brakes, antifreeze levels, thermostat, heater, defroster, tires, and everything else that will help keep your vehicle in good running condition, especially in cold weather. You don’t want them to suddenly bog down while you’re rushing to safety, do you?
Keep some essential supplies and survival gear in your vehicle. In case you do encounter trouble while on the road, you will need a car emergency kit. Aside from food, water and the usual survival gear, a car emergency kit includes basic car tools, flares, tow rope, jumper cables, tire chains, snow traction mats, ice scraper, and shovels to remove snow. You must also learn basic car repair.
Where To Go
A bug out location is the place where you will go if you have to evacuate your home. This can be an evacuation center designated by the local government or a place outside the state that you have prepared beforehand. Make sure you have food, water and other supplies in your bug out location.
Lots of people will be on the road trying to avoid the incoming catastrophe. It’s a good idea to decide early whether you should evacuate or not to avoid the rush of cars and people. Check all routes from your home to the bug out location, as well. In case the fastest way out is packed, you should know where to head next.
Once you’ve discussed and developed your evacuation plan with everyone, it’s time to practice. By regularly practicing your strategy, it would be easier for everyone to remember what to do once you do have an actual emergency.
Build Your Bug Out Bags
Each able-bodied member of the household should have their own bug out bag. This emergency kit should include non-perishable food and water for one person good for at least three days. Other essential items that will help you get through a blizzard include warm clothes, gloves, socks, waterproof clothes and footwear. You’ll also need wool blankets, space blankets, poncho, tarp, sleeping bag, and sleeping pad. A tent will also be useful if you have to stay outdoors or to give you some privacy while inside an evacuation center.
Pack a hygiene kit, first aid kit, medicines, and specific needs for exiting medical issues. For prescription medicines, you’ll need to ask permission from your doctor if you can stock up on at least three days’ worth of supply. Store important documents in waterproof containers and bring them when you bug out. Don’t forget to bring formula and other baby needs if you have an infant. Make sure you have everything your elderly relatives need, as well. For pet owners, you also have to pack their food and other essentials.
As for survival gear, fire starters, tinder, portable stoves, and anything that will help keep you warm are particularly important when you prepare for a blizzard. The Safety Weatherproof Matches w/ Waterproof Case and Tough Tesla Lighter 2.0 Outdoor Waterproof Dual Arc Plasma Lighter, both by Frog & CO, are a couple of emergency kit must-haves. Both tools can be used to start a fire even in cold or wet conditions. That means you’ll be better equipped to survive a blizzard.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_fY62JRRrmU&ab_channel=CindyVestIC
You will also find the LifeShield Warmth & Outdoor Shelter Kit pretty handy. The set includes a 2-person tube tent, waterproof emergency poncho, two Heat Pax 20-hour body warmers, and the Tact Bivvy emergency sleeping bag. The Tact Bivvy that is made of HeatEcho, material that bounces your body heat back to you.
Other basic hear include flashlight, camping lantern, pocket knife, multi-tool, communication tools, personal water filter, water purification tablets, whistle, compass, and signal mirror. If you’re capable of carrying more, that would be great but make sure you can run if the need arises.
Prepare Your Home For A Blizzard
If you live in a place prone to extreme cold weather and winter storms, you should already have a home that’s built for the occasion. If not, here are some blizzard preparedness tips for your home.
Protect Your Home From Damages
Winter storms come with strong sustained winds that can cause damage to your home and property. Use storm windows or plywood to protect your glass windows. They also act as an additional barrier against the cold. Reinforce the doors, as well.
If you have a garage door, it’s best to reinforce it. Garage doors are one of the weakest points in a home if they’re not reinforced. Strong winds can blow them away leaving the whole structure along with everything and everyone in it vulnerable.
The roof is also susceptible to damage during a blizzard. The strong winds can blow it away while heavy snowfall can cause it to cave in. Use hurricane clips or ties to reinforce the rafters. Check for loose roof shingles and make the necessary repairs. If you decide to replace the entire thing, use shingles with a high wind rating. This means they can withstand strong winds.
If you ignored all the signs that your roof needs repairs and the weather radio says a blizzard is coming, you’re in deep doo-doo. The best you can do is to get up there and fix what you can as fast as you can. You also need to clear the roof and gutter of any debris. If it has been snowing already, you may need to remove it or at least lessen the load so your roof can withstand another barrage of precipitation from the blizzard. If you notice ice dams or frozen water that keeps the snowmelt from draining off, you will need to seek help from the professionals.
Use Different Home Heating Options
One of the most important tips to prepare for a blizzard is to keep your home warm. There are plenty of ways to do so.
Furnaces and Boilers
Furnaces and boilers are heating systems that distributes heat to an entire building. The former heats air, which is spread via air ducts. The latter boils water then the resulting steam is distributed through pipes and radiators.
This heating system is quite expensive and requires professionals to have them installed. You also need to have it regularly checked to avoid potential issues. If you decide on a furnace or boiler, choose a system that is energy efficient.
The Martin Direct Vent Propane Wall Heater Furnace is something that you can install yourself with the right tools. It comes with a large piece of paper containing an outline of the actual measurements of the unit. You’re supposed to tape it to the wall and use it a guide as you saw a hole for your furnace. Watch the video above to see how it’s done.
Remember to check your furnace vents for snow, frozen ice or other blockages. Blocked vents may end up killing you as the carbon monoxide produced by the heating process will not be able to escape. Other home heating options may also cause carbon monoxide positioning if mishandled so please be doubly careful.
Install a carbon monoxide detector to be on the safe side. The Kidde Carbon Monoxide Detector Alarm blurts out 85 decibels of sound via its piezoelectric horn whenever it detects carbon monoxide in your home. It just needs a couple of AA batteries to do its job.
Fireplace
The oldest method of keeping warm is to use fire. Knowing how to start a fire is an important survival skill, especially if you’re out camping or living off-grid. In your more modern home, you can also use fire to stay warm.
If you have a wood-burning fireplace, keep it well-maintained. Clean the interior regularly, especially if you use it often. Make sure to get all the soot and creosote off. Check if the chimney is in good condition. There should be a small door called a damper that should remain close when the fireplace is not in use. This is mainly to control the intensity of the fire. If it’s malfunctioning, you may end up with too intense a fire. Check the mesh guard, as well. It’s the screen that prevents embers from taking a deadly stroll around the house. For more tips on maintaining a fireplace, check this out.
If you’re using a fire to heat up your home, you need to be aware of fire safety tips. If you’re not careful, even that little ember from your fireplace or in your wooden stove may get out of hand. Make sure you have fire extinguishers at home. Smoke created by the fire can be hazardous, too, so that’s another thing to worry about.
Wood or Pellet Stoves
Aside from cooking, wood- or pellet-burning appliances can also be used for warmth. These heaters are commonly made of steel or cast iron. The Fltom Portable Wood Burning Stove can be used indoors or to heat up your tent when outdoors. While the stove provides heat through the pipes, you can use the stove top to cook soup or boil water to further help keep your body warm. Before purchasing wood-burning appliances, find out what kinds are allowed in your state by visiting the air quality agency in your area.
Once cold sets in, you need your home to warm up fast. Use something like the Tomersun 3 Blades Heat Powered Stove Fan. This device utilizes the heat produce by the stove to spin the fan blades, which in turn spreads the heat faster. The fuel efficient portable stove fan doesn’t need electricity or battery and blows faster the higher the temperature.
Space Heater
You’ll want to have an electric heater installed, especially if you live in one of the coldest states in the country. However, this system may make a dent in your pocket. You can opt for the portable version instead.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dv_eaQaIF08&ab_channel=AbigailJulia
The GiveBest Portable Electric Space Heater with Thermostat measures 8.3 x 6.3 x 4 inches and weighs only 2.2 pounds. It gives off 750W and 1500W heat levels and also has a cool air feature. The ceramic space heater is all about safety while keeping you warm and cozy. It is made of durable and flame retardant ABS plastic so it won’t catch fire easily. Plus, it comes with an automatic safety shutoff system to avoid overheating. Finally, the portable heater utilizes a protection system that automatically shuts off in case the heater tips over.
Keep the Cold Out
It may not enough to just keep the heater cranking during a blizzard. You have to make sure that the elements don’t get in your home.
Check your home regularly to see if there are damages that need to be repaired immediately. Look for cracks and holes on walls where cold air could seep through. If the cracks are too large, you probably have structural damage. You’ll need professional help for this.
Inspect the doors and windows, too. They should close tightly. Doors have gaps where cold draft can pass through. Heat from inside can also escape through these gaps. Cover them using a door sweep or double draft stoppers. Invest on storm doors and storm windows. They provide extra protection against the elements.
On cold days, check your switches and outlets if you can feel cold air coming from them. If yes, you can use switch inserts and foam outlets to keep the cold from seeping through. Hire a professional if you’re not too confident about handling this.
Stock Up On Supplies
If it gets really bad out there, you’re better off staying inside your home. It would be a lot better if you’re already maintaining a prepper pantry. If not, take the time to stock up on supplies before the blizzard hits.
Load up on bottled water, energy drinks, juice, coffee, tea and other beverages you prefer to have during the blizzard. Replenish your pantry with non-perishable foods like canned goods, especially the ones you can use to make hot soup and stews. Instant noodle soups, pasta, dried meat, dried fruits, cereal, nuts, grains, and chips will not spoil easy so they’re prime candidates for your winter pantry.
You can keep perishables in the freezer but be ready to cook and consume them immediately once power goes out. When this happens, a full freezer can keep its contents cold for up to two days as long as you don’t open the freezer door.
Keep some ice in your freezer. During a power outage, you can pack your perishables in a cooler and cover them with ice. You can also invest on a GoSun Chill Electric Cooler. This special cooler does not require ice to do its job. It harnesses energy from different sources and uses it to make its own ice. Use the AC Adapter to directly power the GoSun Chill via wall socket or charge the PowerBank+ which is included in the purchase.
The 12 Volt DC Power Cord is used to charge the cooler from your car, a good alternative if power goes out or when you’re outdoors. The PowerBank+ can also be charged using GoSun’s Solar Table or Flexible Solar Panel. It can be then used to power the Chill for up to 14 hours or charge other small devices.
Stay Warm
Aside from the different options of heating your home, there are other ways to stay warm during a winter storm. We’re not just talking about cuddling here but that would be really nice when it gets cold.
First, close all windows and cover them with blackout drapes. Thermal insulated curtains would be nice. Shut all the doors, too, even the interior ones. If you haven’t been paying attention and did not install door sweeps or draft stoppers, just cover the gaps with towels.
Next, make sure everyone is wearing weather-appropriate clothes. If you live in a winter storm-prone area, you should’ve been preparing for a blizzard by purchasing warm clothes and wool blankets. If you’ve been out preparing your home, you’ll likely be wet and cold. Change into warm clothes immediately to avoid frostbite.
Designate a room where everyone will gather during the snowstorm. This room should be well insulated and packed with supplies and gear. As mentioned, your blizzard emergency kit should include items to keep you warm such as thermal blankets and hand warmers.
It would also be nice if you have already prepared hot soup or drinks just before the blizzard strikes. That bowl of chicken soup or cup of hot chocolate would do wonders once it gets really cold. Oh and yeah, it would be nice to cuddle.
We’ll be doing away with those “winter is coming” memes and focus more on learning valuable tips to prepare for a blizzard. There’ll be no fire-breathing dragon to save us or dragonglass swords to kill White Walkers. This is real life. We could die if we don’t prepare for a blizzard.
We’re certainly not going to bend the knee just to persuade you to take winter storm preparedness tips seriously. And before we go overboard with the Game of Thrones references, we’d like to ask you to share other blizzard preparedness tips that you may have in mind. Oh, and check out Gentleman Pirate Club, too, for more prepping and survival tips.
