Thursday Thirteen 308: Winter Weather Preparedness

November 4-8 is Winter Weather Awareness Week in Wisconsin. The purpose is to remind those of us in northern climes how to prepare for winter weather, both at home and in the car. While Southern Wisconsin has not yet seen snow (they've had several inches up north), snow showers are in next week's forecast. I am so not ready to see snow!


Here are a few items to remember for your home:

— Make sure batteries in smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are working. Batteries should be replaced regularly.

— Make sure you have flashlights, extra batteries, and a first aid kit.

— Make sure you have plenty of food and water (or containers to store water) on hand. Emergency food rations should include items that need no cooking, such as bread, peanut butter and jelly, protein/granola/cereal bars, crackers, canned meats, and canned fruits.

— Make sure you have extra medication and baby supplies.


If traveling during winter months, make sure you check weather forecasts for your starting point and destination before you leave. If the weather takes a sudden turn, tune in a radio station for local updates. Tell someone where you are going, and your expected route. If your car slides off the road, stay in your vehicle! Too many people die of exposure because they decide to walk during extreme conditions. It’s easy to get lost or miscalculate distance during a blizzard, especially if you don’t know the area. You are better off staying with the car, no matter how close you think that last house/service station you passed is. Odds are, it’s farther than you think!


Here are items to include in an emergency car kit::

— Blankets and/or sleeping bags

— Extra hats, socks and mittens (it's important not only to stay warm, but dry)

— Flashlights and extra batteries

— First aid kit (include antibiotic ointment, band aids, scissors, medical tape and pain reliever, and extra medication you may be taking)

— Jumper cables

— Kitty litter or sand to help with traction should you get stuck

— Shovel and ice scraper

— Bottled water and non-perishable food such as raisins, nuts, protein/granola/cereal bars, and candy bars

— Cell phone adaptor. It’s hard to call for help if your phone is dead!

BONUS: If you have infants/toddlers, keep an extra bag of diapers in the car


In the last five years, Wisconsin has averaged 50,000 crashes during winter months. More than 5,000 people are injured annually, and another 45 killed. A major cause of winter accidents is driving too fast for conditions. Slow down and pay attention to road and weather conditions. Better to take a bit longer to reach your destination, than not get there at all!


For more tips and information, visit Ready Wisconsin.


LINKING TO: Thursday Thirteen