Preparing for Snowstorms, Blizzards and Other Emergencies Should Become Part of Our Daily Lives

We all know that in Buffalo, weather can be unpredictable. We can’t take anything for granted. Now is the time for everyone to get ready. This Columnist has written dozens of articles on how to prepare for disasters. The weather is changing all over the country. Snowstorms and blizzards are even more deadly. Here in Buffalo the weather reports include two words that are heard more frequently. These two words are oscillating and snow bands.

The recent storms in Buffalo saw these snow bands and oscillating storms cover Western New York for more than a few weeks leading to driving bans, high winds, and whiteouts. The one thing that people should realize now is that it is better to be prepared than to wait until the last minute to rush out to the stores to buy the items that you need because you will run into thousands of other people with the same idea. The store shelves will be cleaned out in a matter of minutes. I recently heard a radio program where the host said that it would only take 4 hours for store shelves to be cleared out in case of an emergency. Now is the time to get the things that you will need in any storm to keep you safe.

A disaster can strike any time. No area of the country is immune. Storms, blizzards, tornadoes, hurricanes, fires, floods and other disasters can affect thousands of people. One of the things that will help you is to have a Go Bag near your door at all times that you take with you at a moment’s notice. This Go Bag can be a backpack or a lightweight suitcase with wheels because you might have to run with it. Having a Go Bag will keep you safe and comfortable for the hours or weeks that you might not be able to return to your home.

I recall that a friend who had attended one of my disaster preparedness workshops told a family member about the Go Bag. This family member lived in California during one of the fires. The Go Bag was helpful to her family when they had only minutes to escape the fire. All they had to do was to take it and run. If you get warning that a storm is coming, then you must prepare yourself in time. Keep the following things in mind.

If an official came to your house and told you to evacuate in 5 or 10 minutes, what would you take with you? Here are some possible items to keep in your bag which should be kept near the door at all times.

1. Prescriptions or medications that you need. You won’t have time to go and look for your medicines.

2. Bottled water.

3. Non-perishable food items such as energy bars.

4. Diapers, baby wipes, and other items for a baby.

5. Your cell phone. Keep it charged. You might want to take an extra phone charger. An extra pair of glasses would be good.

6. A plastic bag with first aid items.

7. A small portable radio and don’t forget batteries in case the power goes out.

8. You need enough money for a few days in small bills. Have a roll of quarters in case you have to stay in a shelter. The quarters can be used for any vending machines that might be available.

Possible items to keep in your car:

1. A blanket, extra face masks, and hand sanitizer.

2. Non-perishable food items, plastic eating utensils, and a can opener.

3. A fire extinguisher.

4. A first aid kit.

5. A flashlight

6. Bottled water

7. Garbage bags.

8. A weather band radio.

Please Note: These are suggestions. There are other items that you might consider. Remember to KEEP A FULL TANK OF GAS BEFORE YOU GO TO BED AT NIGHT!!!! Keep a blanket, jacket, flashlight, and nonperishable food in your car at all times. Invest in hand warmers and a good pair of gloves.

Remember the story of the grasshopper and the ant. The grasshopper played all summer and laughed at the ant who was storing food for the winter. When the winter came, the grasshopper was unprepared and the ant was warm and comfortable.

Here are some words to the wise: BE PREPARED!!