5 Extremely Useful Blizzard Survival Tips

The only good thing about a blizzard is that you are usually given some notice that it is on its way. This should give you enough time to buy some cocoa, batten down the hatches and light a fire in the fireplace. Follow these five blizzard survival tips, and you’ll stay safe and warm while the snow is piling on:

1. Add Extra Insulation to Your Windows and Doors

A blizzard does not just bring snow. A blizzard blows freezing cold winds right up to the exterior of your home. If your home is not well insulated, that freezing cold air will make its way into your living space. Reinforce window and door frames by filling in cracks with caulking, or if the entire window is a problem secure a piece of plastic in front of it. Use old towels rolled up as an additional barrier for the space at the bottom of doors that lead outside.

2. Stock Up on Supplies

Flashlights and batteries are good to have in case the snow cuts off your electricity. Also buy some candles and matches to use as lighting when not moving around your home. If you have a fireplace make sure that you have sufficient amounts of dry kindling and wood stored inside, or invest in a kerosene heater to provide heat if your electric is out.

When considering food to stock up on, shop as if you know that you will be without electric for a while. Bottled water and ready to eat non-perishable foods are your best bet. If you absolutely must have items like milk for young children, have bags of ice and a cooler ready just in case.

3. Get Your Warm Blankets Out of the Bedrooms

To conserve heat, your family should be limited to one or two rooms in the house, ideally those with an alternative heat source. Camp out on the floor together using your warmest blankets and take advantage of body heat to stay warm at night. Don’t forget to include your pets in your plans to stay warm, as they are just as susceptible to extreme cold temperatures as you are.

4. Don’t Leave the House

Blizzards create conditions where it is difficult to see and often hard to get your bearings. Make sure that you have all that you need at home, before the first flakes start to fall. With a fast moving storm, conditions can change for the worse in a matter of minutes, leaving you stranded outside in the cold.

5. Keep Your Cell Phone + A Backup Battery Charged

Cell phones will allow you to keep track of other family members and friends who are also braving the storm, as well as provide you with a means of contacting authorities in the event of an emergency. If your town or municipality has invested in an emergency notification system, you may also receive important storm updates on your cell phone.

Unlike other storms, blizzards can leave you in a precarious position for days after the storm has blown over. By being prepared beforehand, you and your family will have no problems in weathering out the storm, and its aftermath.