You probably already have your Bread & Milk and a full tank of gas by now, but have you considered the other ways that you can ensure you and your family’s safety through the winter storm?
- Insulate windows, particularly older windows, with heat sealing plastic to keep the cold air out.
- Have at least a 3-day supply of water and food, ideally one-gallon of water per person and a stock of non-perishable foods.
- Keep stock of batteries, especially AA and C or D batteries for portable radios and flashlights.
- Place flashlights or lanterns in easily locatable spots around the house.
- Charge any mobile devices or tablets. One great thing to have around is a portable power bank for charging mobile devices including iPhones and Droids.
- If you need to use a wi-fi enabled device, set your cell phone up as a wifi hotspot. That way you can binge-watch House of Cards or Grey’s Anatomy on Netflix while snowed in eating your canned soup and PB&J. Learn how to set up your device as a Wi-Fi hotspot with these simple steps.
- Have extra cash on hand, if there are power outages, ATM’s will not be available.
- In case of several inches (or feet!) of snow, when starting a vehicle, be sure to clear snow from the area around the car exhaust to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.
- When operating a generator or other propane, gas or charcoal burning device, be sure to locate unit away from doors, windows or vents that could allow for carbon monoxide to seep indoors.
- If possible, bring your pets inside and keep them safe and warm from the storm. Also remember to keep them away from any spilled anti-freeze which is deadly if ingested.
For more winter safety tips, check out these Winter Storm Preparedness tips from the American Red Cross. If you are a RogersGray client, please contact our 24-hour hotline at 866-709-8001 for assistance with emergencies or claims. Stay safe!
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