Are you ready for the Winter Storm? Here’s a FREE survival guide.
- Juanita Cameron (Ms. JelC)
- Jan 24
- 2 min read
By Ms. Juanita E.L. Cameron
With winter storms on the horizon, it's crucial to understand how to stay safe and secure during these potentially hazardous conditions. While a winter storm advisory may not sound as severe as a warning, it still signals the presence of dangerous weather conditions that can affect your safety and comfort. Here's how you can prepare and protect yourself and your loved ones.
Recognizing the Hazards
Winter storm advisories often mean the presence of snow, ice, sleet, and strong winds. Each of these elements can create hazardous conditions:
Snow: Accumulating snow can make travel difficult and, at times, impossible.
Ice: Freezing rain can create treacherous, slick surfaces.
Sleet: This mix reduces visibility and can cause slippery roads.
Wind: Strong gusts can lead to blizzard-like conditions, intensifying the impact of snow and ice.
Home Preparedness Checklist
Ensuring your home is winter-ready is crucial. Here's a checklist to follow:
Stock Up on Essentials: Have flashlights, batteries, a first aid kit, non-perishable food, and water (at least one gallon per person per day). Don’t forget warm blankets, rock salt, and a snow shovel.
Insulate Pipes: Prevent freezing and bursting by wrapping exposed pipes and letting faucets drip during extreme cold.
Heating Systems: Make sure your furnace and other heating systems are working efficiently. Consider a professional inspection.
Seal Drafts: Reduce heat loss by sealing windows and doors.
Clear Gutters: Remove debris to prevent ice dams.
Trim Trees: Cut branches that could break and damage your home during a storm.
Safety Tips During a Storm
Your safety is the top priority. Follow these guidelines:
Stay Indoors: Limit outdoor activities and stay in a warm, secure place.
Dress Warmly: Wear layers of loose-fitting, warm clothing. Protect extremities by covering your head, hands, and feet.
Avoid Travel: If possible, stay off the roads. If travel is unavoidable, ensure your vehicle is winterized and carry an emergency kit.
Use Generators Safely: Never use generators indoors. Ensure proper ventilation to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning.
Check on Neighbors: Particularly look out for elderly or vulnerable individuals to make sure they're safe and warm.
Essential Car Safety
If you must travel, prepare your car:
Winterize Your Vehicle: Check antifreeze levels, battery, brakes, headlights, and tire pressure.
Emergency Kit: Carry blankets, a flashlight, jumper cables, a first-aid kit, food, and water.
Safe Driving: Drive slowly, increase following distance, and avoid sudden stops.
Stay Safe and Informed
Winter storms can be daunting, but with preparation and awareness, you can navigate them safely. Keep monitoring weather forecasts, prepare both your home and vehicle, and adhere to safety guidelines. Share this information with your community to ensure everyone is ready for what winter may bring. Stay safe and warm!
This advisory is not meant to alarm, but to encourage simple, faith-filled preparation.
What Else Can You Do?
Pray and plan: Cover your family in prayer and check on loved ones who may need support; as well as check on your church community.
If travel becomes unsafe, I encourage you to stay in and stay warm, access whatever is needed remotely where possible.
xoxo Miss JelC
Ms. Juanita E. L. Cameron 🌹
January 22, 2026
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