Things to Do in a Snowstorm

Important Supplies

• If a bad storm is coming and threatens to drop huge amounts of snow, several things are needed to help clean up afterwards. In extreme cases, over a foot of snow can accumulate on sidewalks and driveways, so a snow shovel is a must. Once the snow is cleared, rock salt is needed to avoid the damp sidewalks and drives becoming icy and hazardous. In very cold conditions, even salt cannot stop ice forming, so sand may be needed to help with tire traction on icy driveways. Alternate heating fuel and equipment may be needed in case regular fuel resources are knocked out.

Preparing the Home

• It can get exceptionally cold after a snow storm, so a well-insulated house is important. Aside from in-wall and attic insulation, doors and windows need insulating as well. Use plastic wrap to cover windows to trap heat and block drafts. Add weather stripping to doors to also block drafts. Insulating water pipes is important, and can be done using newspaper or plastic. Allow water faucets to drip slightly to keep water moving.

Preparing the Car

• Keeping the car in good working order is important. Brakes have to be in good condition, anti-freeze needs to be topped up, batteries need to be clean and well-maintained and electronics have to work. Windshield wipers have to work at top capacity as well; getting caught driving in the storm with ineffective wipers might lead to pulling over or worse. If driving in the storm is unavoidable, stock the car with a shovel, windshield scraper, rock salt and sand. Other supplies might include extra blankets, extra clothes, snacks, water and emergency flares.

Dress Weather Appropriate

• When clearing the driveway and sidewalks, dress up warm. Multiple layers of loose-fitting clothes are advised, rather than thick, movement-restricting single layers. The outer layers should, of course, be waterproof to keep damp melting snow away from the skin. A lot of heat is lost through the top of the head, so a warm hat is important. In extreme cold conditions, breathing can be made difficult by cold air in the lungs, so cover the mouth with a scarf when working outside.