Winter storms can bring extreme cold, freezing rain, snow, ice, and high winds. Staying safe and warm can be a challenge. You may have to cope with problems such as:

• Cold-related health problems, including frostbite and hypothermia
• Household fires and carbon monoxide poisoning from space heaters and fireplaces
• Unsafe driving conditions on icy roads
• Power failures and loss of communication
• Floods after the snow and ice melt

• Have a disaster plan that includes
• Making sure that you have important phone numbers, including numbers for your health care providers, pharmacy, and veterinarian
• Having a communication plan for your family
• Knowing how to get reliable information during the storm
• Prepare your home to keep out the cold with insulation, caulking, and weather stripping. Learn how to keep pipes from freezing.
• Gather supplies in case you need to stay home for several days without power
• If you plan to use your fireplace or wood stove for emergency heating, have your chimney or flue inspected each year
• Install a smoke detector and a battery-operated carbon monoxide detector
• If you have to travel, be sure you have an emergency car kit with some basic supplies like
• An ice scraper
• A shovel
• Cat litter or sand for better tire traction
• Water and snacks
• Extra warm clothing
• Jumper cables
• First aid kit with any necessary medicines and a pocketknife
• A battery-powered radio, a flashlight, and extra batteries
• Emergency flares or distress flags
• Waterproof matches and a can to melt snow for water

If you do experience a disaster, it is normal to feel stressed. You may need help in finding ways to cope.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention