Here in New Hampshire, we are accustomed to winter storm watches and warnings being in effect on a regular basis during our cold winter months. However, a blizzard warning is less common and signifies a much more severe threat. A blizzard warning means that a harsh combination of snow and high winds will cause blinding and blowing snowfall, high snow drifts, near-zero visibility, and life-threatening wind chill factors. If a blizzard warning is in effect in your area, review the following blizzard safety tips and begin preparing immediately:
Prepare for power outages. With blizzards often come wind, ice and snow, which can bring down power lines. Prepare for a potential power outage by ensuring that you have a flashlight and/or battery-operated lantern, spare batteries, candles, matches and/or lighters, a battery-operated radio, emergency food supplies, and blankets. If you own a portable generator, make sure it is functioning properly and that you know how to use it safely.- Ensure that your emergency kit is fully stocked. Check your home emergency kit to ensure that it is stocked with water, food, any necessary medications, copies of important documents, a manual can opener, a first-aid kit, pliers, toilet paper, maps of the local area, a copy of your family’s emergency action plan, and extra cash. Don’t have a home emergency kit? Click here for tips on how to quickly build one before the storm hits.
- Get your snow shovels and other snow removal equipment ready. Make sure you have at least a couple of snow shovels and any other snow removal equipment you own out and ready for use before the snow starts falling.
- Charge your cell phone and update it with emergency contact numbers. Keep your cell phone fully charged so that you will be able to use it in the event that you lose power. Also, if you don’t have them stored already, make sure you add all of the emergency contact phone numbers you may need during the storm. If you have any other electronic devices that may prove useful during a power outage, such as a tablet, make sure you remember to fully charge those as well.
- Remain indoors. Unless traveling is absolutely necessary, it’s crucial to remain indoors at all times while a blizzard warning is in effect. If you are on the road when the snow begins to fall, look for a nearby hotel or motel and remain there until driving conditions are safe again.
At Eaton & Berube, the safety of you and your loved ones is important to us. For additional safety tips and useful resources please subscribe to our blog or contact us.
And remember, if you are a client of ours, click here or call 603-882-2766 to report an emergency claim 24/7.