Stay Happy, Healthy and Warm

  • Coordinate with neighbors for care of the elderly and disabled living alone
  • Maintain a supply of prescriptions, nonprescription drugs, vitamins, and special dietary foods
  • Playing cards, books, drawing and writing supplies, and board games help pass the time. If you have a video camera and tapes, your family can make a storm documentary
  • Keep sanitary and personal hygiene supplies replenished. Premoistened cleansing towelettes are useful and help conserve water
  • Use plastic trash bags and ties for garbage
  • Put first-aid kits in your home and car
  • Make sure you have cold-weather clothing, foul-weather gear, blankets, and sleeping bags
  • Consider purchasing alternative UL-approved heating devices. For example, a fireplace insert or woodstove will keep the heat in your home instead of up the chimney
  • Use flashlights and other battery-operated lighting instead of candles
  • Keep fire extinguishers fully charged
  • Fill your bathtub with water for bathroom use before the storm (if you have a well)