Survival 101: SNOWSTORM

When a gigantic snowstorm is forecast, the time would almost be too late to prepare for the outcome of the storm. The time to prepare for any emergency situation is before the knowledge of the event.

The first thing to consider is where you will be during the hazardous situations and what route will you consider to get to a safe location. The timing is important, as well as preparation. Water, food, shelter and sanitation considerations should be planned and prepared well in advance.

When the media announces any major snowstorm, tornado, hurricane or other major weather related event, the public strips the bread, bottled water, ice, matches, eggs, charcoal and other comfort items from the grocery store shelves in a matter of hours. A well stocked pantry, as well as a reserve of drinkable water, would be essential for long term survival of a major snowstorm.

When it comes to plain common sense, humans do not always abide by common sense.

Rule number 1 common sense: STAY DRY and WARM in cold weather

Rule number 2 common sense: Have plenty of high energy foods stocked up and available

Rule number 3 common sense: Fill all tubs, basins, pots and pans with water in the event of electrical outage.

Rule number 4 common sense: Have at least one gallon of drinkable water per person available for at least three days.

Rule number 5 common sense: Have some extra dry clothes, gloves, blankets and coats.

Rule number 6 common sense: Always have some backup water and food while traveling.

Rule number 7 common sense: Always have some cash on hand to purchase fuel, food and water.

Rule number 8 common sense: Hydrocarbon fuels can warm but also emit deadly fumes, so be sure to vent the fumes.

Rule number 9 common sense: Do not try to do too much.

Rule number 10 common sense: Do not try to travel in a major snowstorm

Always be prepared before an event happens !!! Stores close, deliveries are hampered, resources shrink, food, ice and water disappear off the grocery store shelves.

Drinkable water is essential to life and survival. It takes one gallon of water per person per day to survive. Plain and simple, if you do not have drinkable water, you die in a very short time, which most people die in three days or less. A person also must have food to survive. A person can only last about 30 days without food. Water and food are therefore necessities to have during any crises, especially a major snowstorm.

A bug-out-bag and get-out-of-dodge bag would be helpful during a massive snowstorm because the contents would supply the basic water and food needs for a period of time. The bags would have some water, high energy food bars and some way of maintaining a grip on life.

People must stay warm during a snowstorm of any magnitude. Major snow storms can wreck power lines and cause major electrical outages, some lasting for weeks or even months. Modern conveniences of electric heat, electric blankets and space heaters can quickly be disabled with one downed power pole, making the people rely on past proven heat sources. With out coal, wood, propane, butane, kerosene or other hydrocarbon fuel, people would be plunged into cold days and frigid nights.

NOTE: ANY HYDROCARBON FUEL USES OXYGEN AND GIVES OFF CARBON MONOXIDE, WHICH IS VERY DANGEROUS. READ THE CAUTIONS ON THE DEVICE USING THE FUEL ! VENT ALL HYDROCARBON DEVICES.

Camping equipment can be used to heat, cook, heat hot water and to stay warm. Low temperature sleeping bags could be used to stay warm without burning the fuels. Propane camping stoves could be used to cook, melt snow for drinking water and for an enjoyable cup of hot beverage.

To survive, a person has to have or be able to get essential items. These being, drinkable water, food, shelter, heat and clothing. With the snow being two or more feet deep, there is little chance that emergency crews will be able to assist everyone that are needing life giving substances and services.

The best way to survive any crises is to be prepared, be knowledgeable and and have a well stocked pantry. The pantry should consist of eatable foods that do not require cooking, but could be able to eat from the package or can.

Stay calm, slow down and enjoy the snow. Look at the beautiful shapes that the snowflakes make. Enjoy each sip of warm coffee or hot chocolate. Above all, share what you have with others who did not prepare for the crises. Help your neighbors and get to know who your neighbors are.