Winter can bring severe storms. That is why it is important to start preparing for an emergency now. There are several things that you can do to prepare yourself and family for an emergency. 

Have Plenty of Water and Non-Perishable Food Items

You may not be able to leave your home for days if the weather is bad. You can prepare for this beforehand by stocking your refrigerator beforehand. You will also need to buy bottled water and batteries. Additionally, you will need to buy salt and sand for your driveway. You can also store potable water in clean milk jugs for up to six months.

Have an Alternative Heating Source

Your furnace may give out if there is a winter storm. Heating companies are busy during this time of the year, so you may have to wait days before you are able to get your furnace repaired. You can keep yourself warm with space heaters. You can also use your fireplace. Kerosene heaters are another option. 

Keep Flashlights Handy

Flashlights are something else that you want to have just in case the power goes out. This is an example of where the extra batteries will come in handy. It is best to use LED flashlights and lanterns because they are efficient. You can also use candles. However, you want to make sure that you keep the candles away from flammable items. You will also need to keep them out of the reach of children and pets. 

Get a Generator

A generator will come in handy if the power goes out in your home. Generators work by obtaining mechanical energy from an outside source and converting it into electrical energy. If you have a generator, then you will be able to cook, use your computer, watch television and do anything that requires electricity even if the power goes out. This is great especially for areas where the power consistently goes out or where winter storms get worse each years. This is especially important for those with young babies, family members with immunological issues, or that have medical equipment at home.

Keep the Lines of Communication Open

Snow and ice can cause home phone outages. However, it is rare for a storm to be bad enough to interfere with cellular service. That is why you will need to keep your cell phone charged. Even if your cell phone coverage is weak, you will probably still be able to send and receive text messages. If you live in the country, then you may want to invest in a walkie-talkie. 

Preparation is the key to surviving a winter emergency. You can prepare by investing in a generator and flashlights. You will also need to stock your refrigerator and have an alternative heating source. Furthermore, you will need to keep the lines of communication open.