An ice storm, like any severe winter storm, threatens the safety of your family and your home. However, with thorough planning, a well-stocked supply of emergency provisions and the guidelines in this article, you and your family will be ready for the storm and weather it in as much comfort as possible.
Instructions
Prepare Yourself for Ice Storms
1. Stock up on batteries, flashlights and candles. Get a battery-powered radio and prepare an alternate source of heat, like a generator or enough wood to supply a wood stove.
2. Store extra clothes and blankets for when power and heat are lost.
3. Stock up on extra food and water. Keep a manual can opener and food that requires little or no cooking unless you have an alternate cooking source like a propane grill or camping stove with plenty of fuel. Keep at least one week's worth of prescription medication on hand.
4. Have a first aid kit, list of emergency numbers and a corded phone within easy reach. Cordless phones do not work when the power is out.
5. Fill up automobile gas tanks and have cash on hand because gas stations and banks may be out of service during an ice storm.
6. Unplug appliances to protect them from bursts of electricity, like the television, stereo, computer and microwave.
Prepare your Home for Ice Storms
7. Install smoke alarms and test their batteries.
8. Properly insulate your home and seal windows and doors with weather-stripping to prevent cold air from leaking in.
9. Install storm windows or wrap windows from inside with plastic to add extra insulation against cold air.
10. Drain water pipes and consider wrapping them with blankets or newspapers to discourage freezing which commonly occurs during an ice storm. Alternately, let them drip but catch the water so that later it can be used for drinking, cooking or washing.
Keep Safe During Ice Storms
11. Turn off all major electric appliances if the power goes out.
12. Keep the refrigerator and freezer closed to conserve cold air and preserve food.
13. Use water sparingly; for example, flush the toilet with leftover cooking or washing water.
14. Eat and drink on a regular basis to stay hydrated and to help regulate you body temperature.
15. Listen to the radio for forecasts, warnings and further instructions regarding the ice storm.
16. Change wet clothing frequently to avoid losing body heat. Seek medical attention if you see any indications of hypothermia or frostbite.
Tags: cooking washing, during storm, food water, when power, your family, your home