Safety Measures Before and During a Blizzard

Blizzards can arrive with little warning and quickly turn everyday routines into serious safety risks. A bit of planning ahead and smart decisions during the storm can make a big difference for your home, your family, and your pets. Here’s a simple guide to help you prepare before and during the snow hits and stay safe until conditions improve.

Before the Blizzard

Prepare Your Home

• Stock 3–5 days of supplies: water (1 gallon/person/day), nonperishable food, medications.

• Have flashlights + extra batteries (avoid candles due to fire risk).

• Charge phones, laptops, and backup battery packs.

• Set thermostats to at least 55°F (13°C) to prevent frozen pipes.

• Know how to shut off water in case pipes burst.

• Bring pets indoors.

Prepare Your Car

• Keep your tank at least half full.

• Pack an emergency kit: blankets, shovel, ice scraper, sand/kitty litter (for traction), snacks, water.

• Keep your phone charger in the car.

During the Blizzard

Avoid Travel

• Stay off the roads unless absolutely necessary.

• Whiteout conditions can reduce visibility to near zero.

Check updates from:

• National Weather Service

• National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

• Your state’s emergency management office

Prevent Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

• Never run a generator indoors or in a garage.

• Keep generators at least 20 feet from your home.

• Never use ovens or grills for heat.

• Make sure CO detectors have fresh batteries.

Prevent Frostbite & Hypothermia

• Dress in layers, cover hands, feet, face.

• Limit time outdoors.

Watch for:

• Numb, pale skin (frostbite)

• Shivering, confusion, slurred speech (hypothermia)

If You Lose Power

• Close off unused rooms and gather in one area.

• Keep refrigerator/freezer doors closed.

• Use flashlights, not candles.

• If using a fireplace, ensure proper ventilation.

If You’re Stuck in Your Car

• Stay in the vehicle.

• Run the engine 10 minutes each hour for heat.

• Clear snow from the exhaust pipe.

• Crack a window slightly for ventilation.

• Tie a bright cloth to the antenna or door handle for visibility

For those in Tobyhanna, blizzards may be part of winter, but preparation still matters. Secure your home, keep emergency supplies handy, and avoid travel until roads are cleared. Staying cautious and informed helps protect your household and supports the whole community until the storm passes.