How to Prepare For a Winter Storm

Earlier today it was snowing.  Big beautiful flakes.  And my pets LOVED watching it fall.  Here in Georgia we are being told a bad storm is coming tonight bringing tons of ice and some snow.  Sure all the northern people are laughing at us, but we get ICE.  Ice that covers the trees and causes them to fall on power lines, houses, etc.  We are being told to prepare for up to a week without electricity, and prepare for staying in doors from tonight until Friday at best.

Now is definitely the time to prepare.  Here are some tips on getting ready.

• Have plenty of canned goods, non perishables, pet food.  Also, a hand crank can opener.  If power goes out, your electric one will be worthless.  I recommend getting canned goods or foods that you can cook in your fireplace or on a grill.  I would not recommend getting a ton of cold items since if the power goes out, you may lose the items in your fridge.  Avoid opening refrigerators or freezers. Food will stay frozen in a fully loaded freezer for 36 to 48 hours if the door is closed. In a half-full freezer, food will keep 24 hours.
• Charge up all your cell phones, computers, tablets, etc.  Remember though that your wireless may go out with the power outage, so don’t drain all your data at once!
• Go ahead and dig out your batteries, flashlights, candles, matches, radios, etc so you’re not fumbling around in the dark.  Have one at your bedside just in case power goes out overnight.
• Get firewood and cover it with a tarp to keep it dry if you have a fireplace.  If you don’t, consider a generator or an alternative heating source.  DO NOT use a gas oven to heat your home.
• Drag out the board games and get ready to have some fun with your kids
• Fill your bathtub and spare containers with water in case your electric water pump or the local water system goes out.  Be mindful to keep the door closed and young children safe.
• Check on older neighbors and friends before the storm hits to make sure they have all that they need.  Even better, bring them home with you.
• Stay home.  If you must use a car, be sure and pack essentials in case you are stuck on the road.  Food, water, blankets, warm clothes, glow sticks, etc are a must.  The recommendation is 1 gallon of water per person per day.

What other tips do you have to add?