Winter can be a beautiful and enjoyable season, but it can also bring some challenges and risks. Snow, ice, wind, and cold can affect your home, your car, and your health. You need to be prepared for any possible situation and have the right items to keep you safe and comfortable. In this article, I will share with you some things you should have at home and in your emergency car bag for winter. I will also provide you with a free downloadable winter storm checklist that you can print and use to make sure you have everything you need.
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Things to Stock Up on Before Winter Storm
Flashlight: A flashlight can help you see in the dark in case of a power outage or emergency. You should also have extra batteries for your flashlight and other devices. I suggest getting a combination of different types of flashlight.
I’d stock up on flashlight headlamps that you can wear and keep your hands free. You should also buy a few flashlight lanterns so you don’t have to keep holding the flashlight. I like these camping lantern that gives you 100 hours of run time.
Portable Power Station with Outlet: It’s worth it to invest in a power power station with an outlet and USB ports. In case you lose power, you can use the portable power station to charge your phone and other devices. You can also use the power station as a jump starter for your car. It also comes with an air compressor for your car tire. I like this Portable Power station, I even use it for overnight camping trips!
Battery Pack: If a portable power station is too pricey for you. You should definitely buy a few battery packs to charge your phone and devices. I like these battery packs because they also have a built in flashlight.
Candles and matches: Candles can provide light and warmth during a power outage. I have candles as a backup in case I run out of batteries for my flashlight. You should also have matches or a lighter to light them.
Radio: A radio can help you stay informed of the weather conditions and any alerts or warnings. You should have a battery-powered or hand-cranked radio that can receive AM/FM and NOAA weather channels.
First-aid kit: A first-aid kit can help you treat minor injuries and illnesses. You should have bandages, gauze, antiseptic, painkillers, fever reducers, cold and flu medicine, and any prescription medications you or your family members need.
Bottled water: Bottled water can help you stay hydrated and prevent dehydration. You should have at least one gallon of water per person per day for drinking and sanitation purposes. You can also fill your bathtub with water in case your pipes freeze or burst.
Non-perishable food: You should stock up on non-perishable food. Buy a variety of canned, dried, or freeze-dried food that can last for a long time and does not require refrigeration or cooking. You should also have a manual can opener and utensils to eat with.
I like to stock up on canned protein- such as canned tuna, canned chicken and pork & beans. I also suggest stocking up on canned chicken noodle soup as well as lots of snacks such as crackers and chips (don’t forget the salsa!) It’s also a good idea to have granola bars.
Blankets and warm clothing: Blankets and warm clothing can help you stay warm and comfortable. You should have blankets, sleeping bags, coats, hats, gloves, scarves, and socks for each person in your household. You should also layer your clothing to trap heat and adjust to the temperature.
Shovel, salt, or sand: A shovel, salt, or sand can help you clear your driveway and sidewalks of snow and ice. You should have a sturdy shovel that can handle heavy snow and a bag of salt or sand to melt or improve traction on slippery surfaces. You should also wear boots and gloves to protect your feet and hands.
Check out: The Snowiest Places in the US: Record Breaking Snowstorms
What to Pack in Your Car Emergency Bag for Winter Storms
Snacks: Snacks can help you stay nourished and energized in case you get stranded or have to wait for help. You should pack non-perishable, high-calorie, and high-protein snacks that can last for a long time and do not require cooking or refrigeration. Some examples are granola bars, nuts, dried fruits, jerky, crackers, and peanut butter.
Bottled Water: Bring some bottled water in case you get thirsty. It might freeze but at least you have some on hand.
Blankets: Blankets can help you stay warm and comfortable in case your car breaks down or you have to sleep in your car. You should pack wool or fleece blankets that can retain heat and are water-resistant. You can also pack a sleeping bag or a space blanket for extra warmth. I like these emergency car blankets that come with whistles and a storage pouch so it doesn’t take up a lot of space in your car.
Handwarmers and Toe Warmers: Handwarmers and Toewarmers can help you keep your hands and feet warm and prevent frostbite in cold weather. You should pack disposable or reusable handwarmers that can last for several hours and are easy to activate. You can also pack gloves, socks, and boots to protect your extremities. I’d buy a case of handwarmers and toe warmers and keep them in your car in case of emergency!
Gloves and hats: Gloves and hats can help you protect your hands and head from the cold and the wind. You should pack wool or fleece gloves and hats that can keep you warm and dry. You can also pack a scarf or a balaclava to cover your face and neck.
Phone charger: A phone charger can help you keep your phone charged and communicate with others in case of an emergency. You should pack a car charger, a portable charger, or a solar charger that can fit your phone and other devices. You should also pack a battery pack for backup.
Map, compass, whistle, and flare: A map, compass, whistle, and flare can help you navigate and signal for help in case you get lost or need assistance. You should pack a road map, a topographic map, or a GPS device that can show you your location and direction. You should also pack a compass, a whistle, and a flare that can attract attention and indicate your position.I like these LED road flares because they are rechargeable and they even have different flashing modes.
First-aid kit: A first-aid kit can help you treat minor injuries and illnesses in case you get hurt or sick. You should pack bandages, gauze, antiseptic, painkillers, fever reducers, cold and flu medicine, and any prescription medications you or your family members need. You should also pack a thermometer, scissors, tweezers, and gloves. I like this survival first aid kit because it comes with everything you need including scissors and a knife.
Snowbrush and Scraper: You should always have a snowbrush and scraper in the car during winter. I’m just adding it to my list because it’s a must for winter.
Check out: The Snowiest Places in the US: Record Breaking Snowstorms
Free Winter Storm Checklist and Emergency Car Bag Checklist
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