You never know when heavy winter weather will strike. Whether at home with no power or stranded on the road, be prepared with a winter emergency kit that will last for at least three days.

Weathering a Storm at Home

If winter weather knocks your power out, make sure you have supplies ready to get you through the outage. When preparing a home emergency kit, start by thinking about your home and family. How many family members do you need to account for? Candles may not be appropriate for younger children, so make sure you have enough flashlights and batteries. Does anyone have food allergies or special dietary needs? Keep the right non-perishable food on hand. Make sure to account for family pets, too.

Do you have a two-story home? Is your garage ****cted to your home? Where will you store your emergency kit for easy access? The American Red Cross has extensive tips for creating a home emergency kit, and also suggestions on being prepared for an emergency or disaster. 

Stranded on the Road

Should you encounter an emergency while on the road and become stranded with your car, be prepared to:

• Make your vehicle identifiable to others on the road. Flares or reflective signs are helpful visual markers for other drivers.
• Stay safe and secure for a period of time. Keep a supply of water and non-perishable food on hand and blankets or extra clothes.
• Have a means of communication, including a way to call for help. Keep a CB radio in the trunk and mobile cell phone cables and chargers.

Get Your First Aid Kit Together

Consumer Reports has a detailed road emergency kit checklist with elements that will also serve useful in the wintertime. Most importantly, always make sure you have a well-stocked first aid kit in your vehicle.

Whether you buy a kit or assemble your own kit, being prepared during winter months is a necessity. FEMA is also a good resource for emergency kit items.

TIP: Burning candles during a power outage? Make sure your glass containers for your candles are ready by using WD-40 Multi-Use Product to remove candle soot.