Having a full pantry helps me to avoid having to run to the store for last minute items when we have company staying with us. We live in the mountains of Vermont and having a full pantry also assures me that I won’t have to run to the store to prepare for a winter storm. I already have what I need on hand.
If you do have to drive during a winter storm there are certain precautions you should take. First of all avoid travel unless it is absolutely necessary and be sure to allow extra time to get to your destination. Before you leave check the road and weather conditions. Make sure that your car is in good mechanical condition with snow tires and winter windshield wipers.
When you are on the road keep an eye on the ever-changing road conditions such as black ice, blowing snow, high winds or white out conditions. Drive at a speed that matches the prevailing visibility, traffic and road conditions. Leave plenty of room between you and the cars you are following. In conditions where the roads are slippery you may not be able to stop as quickly.
Carry a cell phone and use 911 in case of emergency. It is also a good idea to carry a blanket in case you are stranded for any amount of time.
It is also important to be safe at home. Make sure your home is protected with working smoke detections and carbon monoxide detectors. If there is a large amount of snow around your house be sure to check the vents for your heating system to make sure they are not blocked by snow, especially direct vents that are located on lower walls. A blocked vent can lead to Carbon Monoxide backing up in your home.
If you loose power make use of safe practices when using gasoline powered generators or alternative heating units during the winter. Carbon Monoxide that is produced from these units can kill in minutes. Don’t ever use a gas grill inside your home.
Make sure that all emergency exits and outside stairs or fire escapes are free from ice and snow.
Store your ashes from your fireplace or wood stove in a fire resistant container and cover the container with a lid. Keep the container well away from your house and any other combustible buildings.
You should also monitor the snow build up on your house and other external buildings like barns or sheds to avoid collapse.
Just like having a prudent pantry will keep you well fed during any emergency taking precautions during the winter will help you to avoid accidents.
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Nancy on the Home Front 