One thing we should have all learned from the unusual snow and ice storm that slammed the southeast is you cannot rely on the government, even though they had plenty of warning. Children were stranded on the school buses all night with frigid temps, people abandoning their cars in the middle of the highway and walking to the nearest building for shelter, customers sleeping on the floor in the grocery stores. Would you have been prepared for this situation?
Your best decision is not to go out in bad weather but that is not always an option. Take a few minutes NOW to get together some crucial items and put it in an emergency box. Keep one in the trunk of each car so you are prepared for any number of disasters that may happen while traveling.
- Warm Blankets or emergency thermal mylar blankets which take up very little room.
- Extra hats & mittens, socks in case you get wet, clean under garments in case your are stranded for a few days.
- Instant heat packs which can be put in your gloves, socks, or between the layers of your clothing. They can last up to 18 hrs, well worth the investment.
- A first aid kit including bandages, pain killers, and a few doses of any px medication that is vital.
- Flashlight and batteries or better yet, invest in a crank radio & flashlight. You don't have to risk wearing down your car battery listening to the radio for updates or keeping a light going.
- Water and energy snacks. It's hard to keep calm when your stomach is growling and your little ones are crying from hunger.
- Matches or a lighter in case you need to start a fire for warmth or signal for help.
- A small foldable shovel to dig yourself out of the ditch or to keep the snow cleared away from your exhaust pipe if you run the car engine. Carbon monoxide poison is a frequent cause of death in situations like this.
- Flares and reflectors to make sure you are easily visible to others.
- Roll of toilet paper, no explanation needed.
- Baby wipes to wash your hands or other personal hygiene.
- Deck of cards or other types of entertainment to help pass the time.
This small investment of time and money could literally be the difference of life and death or getting severe frost bite. Many times people have left their vehicle to seek help and became disorientated and lost their life because of it. In most cases, it's safer to remain in your vehicle until help arrives. If you are familiar with you location and are within walking distance to a safe place, and are physically able to reach your destination, proceed with caution and bring some water and other necessary supplies with you. This may not be an option for the young, elderly, or other persons with disabilities.
Unfortunately most people think they will never have to face an unexpected emergency or depend on the authorities to be properly prepared. We have many recent examples such as Hurricane Sandy, and this most recent freak snow storm in the southeast to show that is not usually the case. You are leaving yourself and your family vulnerable when it can easily be prevented by taking a few steps to prepare. Stay safe!