Getting Ready For The Storm
Weather Warnings and Travel Advisory
Weather warnings are placed for a purpose. They are there so we can get prepared for what's coming our way. If we are not prepared it could be a very sorry state to be in. This winter in the U.S. it has been one for the record books. Some places that seldom have snow are getting more than their fair share.
Being prepared is the key to keeping safety issues low. If you are planning to travel it may be in your best interest to cancel your trip. The fewer the cars on the road way the better for the road crews that are trying to clean up the mess. Also keeping your vehicle parked in a driveway instead of the street can make it easier for snow removal.
If you must travel be sure to have water, food, blankets, and a cell phone with you. Remember that speed limit posted is for good road conditions. Slippery roadways should be treated as poor conditions with a slower pace for safety. If you are afraid of driving on snow covered highways it is best to stay off from them for your safety as well as others. If you are not afraid of them you should still be aware of other drivers on the highway. You never know when someone else could lose control and come face to face with your vehicle. Too many deaths occur on the highways due to poor judgement and carelessness.
We never know when a storm may hit.
When preparing for any kind of storm coming your way it is a good idea to be stocked up. Being prepared well ahead of time by keeping extras can be a time saver. Even a box full of canned goods slid under a bed in good weather can prepare us for the winter ahead. People often panic when they hear of bad weather coming and may wipe out store shelves. So you may not be able to get what you need even if you have the time and money to do that.
Heavy snow, ice, and wind can cause power outages. If you use a water pump to draw your water it may be a good idea to fill some containers ahead of time just in case. Also have candles, flashlights with extra batteries, or other sources of light on hand. Some people keep generators with extra gasoline on hand.
Power outages can also knock out your heat supply as most furnaces rely on electric to run them even if it's main source is gas or fuel oil. Considering a second heat source can be less worry if that time should arrive. A fireplace or wood stove can be a good back up. A portable space heater fueled with kerosene or LP gas could do as back up. But what ever you choose be sure to follow safety instructions as to their usage.
What ever type emergency should arrive being prepared is the answer. Rather it be a storm or a sudden drop in your usual income you can be less worried if you have stocked up on essentials.
