Genesee County Health Department

Better Life Through Better Health

Surviving and coping with winter storms can be easier if we prepare in advance. Be prepared for the worst by stocking emergency supplies for your home - candles and matches, a portable radio and a battery operated clock for power outages, keep extra batteries. Stock ample wood for a fireplace.

Stock non-perishable food, particularly what can be eaten without heating. If you use canned goods, make sure you have a manual can opener. If your water supply needs electricity, stock bottled soft drinks, juices and water. The drug store may not be be accessible or open so make sure your vital medicines are kept ahead and not ready to run out.

When it snows, keep your sidewalk and steps clear for pedestrians. A nasty fall on icy pavement can lead to an even nastier lawsuit. If you are hesitant to shovel snow because of age or physical condition hire someone to clear your walkway. Clean any build-up of ice or snow in gutters and on roofs. If the snow and ice can't drain it could result in water damage to walls and ceilings. Check the vents and openings in your attic to make sure snow has not drifted in.

If the power goes off make sure all appliances are shut off and unplugged. To make sure that pipes don't freeze and burst in a home without heat, drain the water. To drain the system, shut off the main water supply at the point nearest the street main. Drain the system at the lowest point, open all faucets, keep the valve and faucets open. If you use well water the pump's electrical supply should be shut off and the pressure tank and system drained. Put antifreeze in all drains. Use propylene glycol if possible; it's not poisonous. If you use ethylene glycol keep it away from children and pets, it's poisonous.

When going outside keep protected. Several layers of clothing are more effective than one very thick layer. In a blizzard visibility is very poor and it is easy to become disoriented and lost, even close to home. If you must go outside in a blizzard, use a lifeline of rope or cord.

When driving in the winter, pay special attention to weather reports. If a severe storm is forecasted, don't travel. Prepare an emergency kit for your car. Keep it in your trunk. The emergency kit should include:

- at least two blankets

- waterproof matches and candles

- extra clothing, particularly overshoes and mittens

- steel shovel (in case you get stuck), sand and rope or cord for a lifeline

• dry emergency rations such as raisins, nuts and candy
• flashlight with spare batteries and emergency flares
• two garbage bags (to be used as insulation) against the wind if you are forced to get out of your car
• metal coffee can for storing small items and to melt snow for drinking

Make sure your car is winterized. Get a tune-up to save wear and tear on the battery. Think about installing snow tires or chains. Chains work best on ice. Keep your windows clear, inside and out. Keep your gas tank at least half full. 

Avoid parallel parking; it is easier to get stuck when you must turn your wheels. If you get stuck don't spin your wheels. To stop, pump your brakes gently. In a skid always steer in the same direction as the rear of your auto is sliding.

If you become stranded, don't panic and don't leave your car. If you're stuck for a long period of time, run your engine and heater no more than ten minutes every hour. Leave a window cracked for ventilation.

Being prepared for winter storms may not make them enjoyable, but it will make them tolerable.

Written By the Staff of the Miami County General Health District