This may be the last big hurrah for Mother Nature, indications are we could see a little snow in the area. Just when we thought we were done. Are you prepared for a bad winter storm. Better yet, are you prepared for shutdowns.

I used to laugh when I lived in Nashville because people would rush to the grocery stores to buy out the break, milk, and toilet paper. I realize now, they aren't prepared. This may sound silly but make sure you have basic supplies just in case they shut down the grocery stores and food marts. Have some eggs, milk, bread, etc Make sure you can make a meal or two. Again, it may sound silly but most households are only buying groceries for a couple of days at a time to take advantage of sales.

If you live in an outlying part of the area and there isn't a store close, make sure you are set and that you have gas in the car and that your car is winter proof. Blankets, first aid, snacks, phone charger, batteries, and things like that just in case you go off the road on the way to getting supplies.

Here's a little list below put together by the folks at HOMELAND PREPAREDNESS.

 

  • 1

    Assemble a disaster supplies kit containing:

    First aid kit and essential medications Battery-powered NOAA Weather Radio and portable radio, flashlight, and extra batteries Canned food and non-electric can opener Bottled water Have your car winterized before winter storm season. Assemble a disaster supplies kit for your car (Include blankets, extra sets of dry clothing, a shovel, sand, tire chains, jumper cables, a first aid kit, a flashlight with extra batteries, and a brightly colored cloth to tie to the antenna). Extra blankets.

  • 2

    Know what winter storm WATCHES and WARNINGS mean:

    A winter storm WATCH means a winter storm is possible in your area. A winter storm WARNING means a winter storm is headed for your area. A blizzard WARNING means strong winds, blind wind-driven snow, and dangerous wind chill are expected.

  • 3

    When a winter storm WATCH is issued:

    Listen to NOAA Weather Radio, KOOL 101.7 and TV stations, or cable TV such as The Weather Channel for further updates. Be alert to changing weather conditions. Avoid unnecessary travel.

  • 4

    When a winter storm WARNING is issued.

    Stay indoors during the storm. If you must go outside, several layers of lightweight clothing will keep you warmer than a single heavy coat. Gloves (or mittens) and a hat will prevent loss of body heat. Cover your mouth to protect your lungs. Understand the hazards of wind chill, which combines the cooling effect of wind and cold temperatures on exposed skin. As the wind increases, heat is carried away from a person's body at an accelerated rate, driving down the body temperature. Walk carefully on snowy, icy sidewalks. After the storm, if you shovel snow, be extremely careful. It is physically strenuous work, so take frequent breaks, Avoid overexertion.

  • 5

    Avoid traveling by car in a storm, but if you must:

    Have emergency supplies in the trunk (Include blankets, extra sets of dry clothing, a shovel, sand, tire chains, jumper cables, a first aid kit, a flashlight with extra batteries, and a brightly colored cloth to tie to the antenna). Keep you car's gas tank full for emergency use and to keep the fuel line from freezing. Let someone know your destination, your route, and when you expect to arrive. If your car gets stuck along the way, help can be sent along your predetermined route.

  • 6

    If you do get stuck in your car:

    Stay with your car. Do not try to walk to safety. Tie a brightly colored cloth (preferably red) to the antenna for rescuers to see. Start the car and use the heater for about 10 minutes every hour. Keep the exhaust pipe clear so fumes won't back up into the car. Leave the overhead light on when the engine is running so that you can be seen. As you sit, keep moving your arms and legs to keep blood circulating and to stay warm. Keep one window away from the blowing wind slightly open to let in air.

  • 7

    Plan to be smart and plan ahead:

    Winter storms bring ice, snow, cold temperatures, and often dangerous driving conditions. Even small amounts of snow and ice can cause severe problems for southern states where winter storms are infrequent. Be prepared by having various household members do each of the items on the checklist below.

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