Winter is upon us, and on the South Plains, that means low temperatures, weather that changes every five minutes, and sometimes, snow. If we can learn anything from 2021’s winter storm, inclement weather can strike with little warning and could last a long time. While we don’t know what this season will bring, now is the best time to prepare if a big storm does strike.
Create an Emergency Kit
According to the American Red Cross, you should have an emergency kit handy with water (one gallon per person per day, as well as a two-week supply), Non-perishable food (easy to prepare, as well as a two week supply), flashlights, a battery-powered radio, extra batteries, a first aid kit, and sanitation items. Since this is a winter storm, you’ll hopefully be inside and won’t need most things if power is active. However, trouble can start if the power goes out, with freezing temperatures creeping their way inside. So before that happens, prepare your house before the temperatures start. Adjust your emergency kits with whatever else you need, such as medications, a multi-purpose tool, games, activities for kids, or anything you can’t live without during a storm.
Winter-Proof your home
Avoid bursting pipes and other damage to your home early! When a winter weather or freeze warning comes in, drain pools or sprinkler lines, install pipe sleeves on pipes exposed outdoors, add insulation to pipes in the basement or attic, and drip your faucets during cold weather to keep water circulating. When it’s frigid, open kitchen cabinets and drawers around pipes to help circulate warm air from your house.
Buy space heaters and heating supplies early
When a winter storm is about to hit, stores will be low on many vital supplies, namely space heaters and warming elements. So, before a storm ever forms, grab a space heater, fireplace logs, hand warmers, and some extra blankets as soon as possible. While at the store, grab a carbon monoxide detector if you don’t have one. Carbon monoxide poisoning is the most common cause of death during winter storms, as people sometimes run generators or cars indoors to stay warm.
Set aside some cash for emergencies
If anything wrong happens, be it home damage, downed power lines taking out your car, or anything else, having some money saved up can help tremendously. Try to save up bit by bit each week, and save enough for three to six months worth of expenses. Saving with ALLIANCE is easy too. Whether you use online banking, our mobile app, or our innovative ITMs, it’s easy to get into saving habits and check finances during a winter storm.
