Winter has officially arrived. This weekend, a massive storm is predicted to affect over 230 million Americans. Multiple states are gearing up for Winter Storm Fern, which is predicted to bring icy conditions as far south as Texas and up to 16 inches of snow through the Midwest and east to New York.
A stormy weekend may end with perfect sledding and skiing conditions, but first, we have to brace ourselves for the very real danger of a winter storm. Preparations are necessary, especially for those who may need to travel over the weekend. As you think about how you may be affected, check out the safety and preparedness tips below to see how you can protect your home, family, health, and physical safety.
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Preparing Your Home
Whether you’re a homeowner or a renter, preparing the building that will protect you during the storm is critical. Storms can bring a wealth of problems, but fortunately, with a little prepwork, most dangerous scenarios and expensive damage can be avoided. We recommend five tasks that will prepare your home for Winter Storm Fern:
- Exterior maintenance: unclog drains, rock salt your driveway and walkways, and trim branches from trees that seem likely to cause home damage if they fall. If you’re able, check the roof for leaksand apply temporary sealant where necessary.
- Insulate: add insulation to pipes (even newspaper or old towels can be helpful!) and caulk or weather stripping around windows and doors to prevent cold air from entering.
- Check your heating system to ensure it is working effectively. Call a professional ASAP if you notice a malfunction.
- Check your alarms: fires and carbon monoxide poisoning are two of the most common emergencies that occur after a storm. Make sure both are intact and operating correctly.
- The drip: head to a faucet you use the least and turn it on just a little bit, letting cold water drip out of it to prevent frozen pipes.
Essential Emergency Items
Go ahead and take that trip to Costco today! Yes, the lines will be long, but better to spend a couple of hours stocking up on necessities than be stuck in the middle of a storm without the items you need. Here is our must-have checklist that will prepare you for anything the storm has to bring:
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- Flashlights or battery-powered lanterns: safer than candles if the power goes out.
- Extra batteries: nothing worse than a dead flashlight in the dark.
- Portable phone charger or power bank: keeps your phone alive for updates, calls, and staying connected.
- Bottled water: in case pipes freeze or water access is disrupted.
- Non-perishable foods (soups, canned meals, peanut butter, granola bars): easy meals that don’t require cooking or power.
- Comfort snacks: storms are stressful, and familiar foods help.
- Extra blankets or sleeping bags: help to retain heat if your home gets cold.
- Warm socks, hats, and gloves: layering matters more than you think.
- Hand warmers: especially helpful if heat is unreliable.
- Rock salt or ice melt: keeps walkways safer and more manageable once the storm passes.
- Shovel (or two): if you don’t already have one, this is the time.
- Thermometer: helps monitor indoor temperatures to prevent frozen pipes.
Caring for Family
Taking care of your family during a winter storm starts with preparation and staying calm. Keep everyone indoors, warm, and well-fed with easy meals, layers, and plenty of blankets. Check in often, conserve power if needed, and stay informed through local updates so you can respond quickly if conditions change.
For young kids, routines and reassurance go a long way. Stick to familiar meal and sleep schedules when possible, explain what’s happening in simple terms, and offer plenty of comfort. Fill their weekend with books, games, or creative activities to reduce stress and boredom while staying safely inside.
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Pets need extra care during storms, too. Keep them indoors, provide fresh water and regular meals (maybe a couple extra special treats), and make sure they have a warm, draft-free place to rest. Limit outdoor time, protect their paws from ice and salt, and keep emergency pet supplies on hand, just in case.
Tips for Travel
We have to start this section with the importance of gas. Drop what you’re doing right now and fill up your tank. Seriously!
Lives have been lost in past storms due to gas running out during a long commute or an emergency trip. The best way to be prepared is to ensure your vehicle is ready to carry you to safety if needed.
If you’re able to, it’s safest to stay home. For essential workers who must travel to work, equip your car with an emergency kit. Store extra layers and blankets in your car in case you need them.
For those with flights booked, it may be best to reschedule or cancel while you can. Airlines are already issuing waivers and canceling flights due to inclement weather.
These tips will keep your family, your home, and yourself safe during the danger of Winter Storm Fern. We look forward to seeing you on the flip side with sleds and skis in hand!
