What Should You Have in a Blizzard?

If you are planning to go on a trip to a place that has experienced a blizzard, there are a few things you should pack. These include a first-aid kit, layers, and perishable food items. You should also take the time to think about how you will survive the storm.

First-aid Kit

If you are going to travel in a vehicle during a blizzard, be sure to bring a first-aid kit with you. Some items you might want to include are a flashlight, extra batteries, a portable charger, and a hand warmer.

You should also make sure to keep your car stocked with warm clothes and a three-day supply of food. Also, you may want to bring along a flashlight, a shovel, and a few other supplies.

In addition to your first-aid kit, you may need to bring medication and personal hygiene items. The American Red Cross recommends a single bag of essentials, but the amount of supplies you'll need will vary depending on how many people live in your household.

Before traveling, take the time to check the weather forecast and your local news reports. Be aware of fast-moving weather systems, as a blizzard could come on suddenly.

Storing Perishables

A blizzard can wreak havoc on your grocery store, leaving you with the choice of purchasing more expensive groceries than you need or scavenging the remnants. One way to avoid this situation is by stocking up on perishables in advance. The old adage that goes something like this: "buy in abundance, and freeze in bulk". This translates to items such as bottled water and ice cubes in the freezer, and canned or dry foods in the pantry. Depending on your geographic locale, this might be more or less of a necessity.

Similarly, the most practical and functional item to stow away is probably non-perishable meat. This is particularly true if you are in an area where the weather is particularly chilly. While many would argue the best place to keep it is in your freezer, you might consider a more frugal approach, such as a cool place in the garage or even on the roof, where temperatures can be moderated.

Protecting Yourself from Frostbite and Hypothermia

When a winter storm is coming to your area, you'll need to take steps to protect yourself from frostbite and hypothermia. These conditions can lead to serious health problems, including amputations. If you're outdoors in freezing weather, stay active to keep your body warm.

Wear several layers of clothing. Be sure to wear a heavy-duty hat. Also, wear gloves or mittens to keep your hands safe. You should also keep your feet covered with socks. The ears and toes are more susceptible to frostbite than other areas.

Do not use heating pads, a fireplace, or a car engine. It can be harmful to your heart and brain.

In the event of a hypothermia emergency, you'll need to seek medical help. This is especially true if you have a prolonged period of exposure to cold temperatures.

Avoiding Accidents

For the uninitiated, a blizzard is an unpleasant experience. In fact, it's a hazard to those who don't take the time to properly prepare for it. As a result, you'll need to make sure you have the following winter driving safety tips in mind.

The first thing you should do is to buckle up. This will make sure you're ready for the worst of the worst. After that, you need to take a few quick safety precautions. These include wearing your seatbelt, buckling up in the car of your choice, and making sure your passengers aren't squished to the point of bloody disintegration. If all else fails, you should try to call it a day and wait it out.

The next best thing to do is to get your car serviced before a big snow or rain storm hits the area. You'll be happy you did!