Winterize your home by installing weather stripping, insulating water lines that run along exterior walls and cleaning out gutters.
Check your heating systems and make sure they are working properly. Clean fireplaces and chimneys. Have safe alternate heating sources. And, remember to never use a generator indoors.
Make sure your smoke detectors are working and remember to replace batteries twice a year.
Prevent carbon monoxide poisoning and install a CO detector to alert you of the presence of CO (it's odorless and colorless and can be deadly).
Prepare Your Vehicle
Maintain antifreeze levels.
Check your tires' tread and replace them if needed.
Use a wintertime formula in your windshield washer.
Prepare a winter emergency kit to keep in your car in case you become stranded:
Cell phone charger and extra battery;
Items to stay warm such as hats, coats, mittens, blankets or sleeping bags;
Food and water;
Flares, booster cables, tire pump and a bag of sand or cat litter (for traction);
Maps;
Flashlight, battery-powered radio and extra batteries; and
First aid kit.
Prepare for Emergencies
Stock food that needs no cooking or refrigeration and water stored in clean containers.
Ensure that your cell phone is always fully charged.
When planning travel, be aware of current and forecast weather conditions.
Protect your family from carbon monoxide by keeping grills, camp stove and generators out of the house, basement and garage. Locate generators at least 20 feet from the house. If your CO detector sounds, leave your home immediately and call 911.
Click here for a great handout and activity sheet to help everyone visualize what makes a Go Food to eat anytime, a Slow Food to eat sometimes, and a Whoa Food to eat only once in a while for healthy eating.