Living in the Western North Carolina mountains, Winter weather is usually pretty mild compared to other parts of the county.
We get our fair share of chilly days, frosty mornings, and occasional snowfall, but we’re not exactly snowpocalypse zone.
Still, we have learned that Winter storms don’t always stick to a predictable schedule. The unexpected can (and does) happen. This is why we are sharing our best tips to help you prepare your home and family for whatever Winter throws your way.
Throughout this prepping series, we are sharing ways to help you prepare for unexpected emergencies. From hurricanes and flooding to fires and storms, you never know when you’ll need these life saving items.
Today’s post is all about prepping for the Winter. Below are 5 simple tips to help assure you and your family stay warm and nourished.
5 Tips to Prep for Winter Weather
I’ll admit – we didn’t always think about prepping for Winter, because we were born and raised near the Snow belt of NE Ohio. It wasn’t about prepping – it was just a way of life.
However, over the years, we have come to see how a little prepping goes a long way in avoiding unnecessary stress when the temps plummet or a surprise snowstorm rolls through.
Our goal isn’t to scare you, but to help you feel ready for the unexpected.
1. Stock Up on Essentials Before You Need Them
The last thing you want to do is scramble to the store when a winter storm warning is announced. Instead, take some time now to stock up on the basics.
- Non-perishable food: Canned soups, beans, pasta, and peanut butter are lifesavers.
- Water: Have at least one gallon per person per day for three days.
- Medications: Refill prescriptions and keep over-the-counter remedies like pain relievers, cough medicine, and allergy meds on hand.
- Pet supplies: Don’t forget food, water, and any medications for your furry friends.
- Shovel: Always have a heavy duty shovel on hand in case you have to carve a path out of your home. For this reason, it’s important to have one in a location that doesn’t require you to go outside to get it.
2. Prepare Your Home for the Cold
We just experienced a “scheduled power outage” in our area – overnight when the temps dropped to 19 degrees. Thankfully, being prepared kept our family and pets warm through the night.
When the temperature drops, your home needs to be ready to keep you safe and warm. Here’s some tips we have learned over the years:
- Insulate your pipes: Frozen pipes can burst and cause a huge mess. Wrapping them in insulation is a quick and affordable fix.
- Check your heating system: Schedule a maintenance check for your furnace or heat pump to ensure it’s running efficiently.
- Seal drafts: Use weather stripping or caulk to seal gaps around windows and doors. It’ll keep the cold out and help lower your heating bill.
- Have alternative heat sources: If the power goes out, a wood stove, portable propane heater, or a generator, can be a lifesaver. Just be sure to follow all safety guidelines.
We have also learned to have plenty of blankets, warm clothing, and socks on hand. Layering up is key if your home get’s chilly. It’s also smart to have these items in an emergency go-bag.
3. Prepare for Power Outages
Power outages are common during winter storms, especially in areas where ice can take down power lines.
Here’s some tips to prepare for the loss of power during the Winter:
- Backup power: If you have a generator, make sure it’s in working condition and that you have fuel.
- Charge devices: Keep phones, tablets, and portable chargers fully charged ahead of a storm.
- Non-electric cooking options: A camp stove or grill can help you prepare meals if the power is out. (Always use them outside to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning.)
- Flashlights and batteries: Have multiple flashlights ready to go, and stock up on batteries.
Even though it’s best to stay home during a snowstorm, sometimes you have to venture out. Whether it’s for work or an emergency, it’s important to be prepared.
- Winterize your car: Check the tires, battery, and antifreeze levels. Keep the gas tank at least half full.
- Create a car emergency kit: Include blankets, a first-aid kit, non-perishable snacks, water, a flashlight, and jumper cables.
- Stay informed: Check weather conditions and road closures before heading out.
4. Be Ready for the Unexpected
One of the biggest lessons we have learned is to expect the unexpected. Winter weather can be unpredictable, and having a plan in place can make all the difference.
For us, that means having:
- A family communication plan in case we’re separated.
- A stash of board games, books, crafty items, and puzzles to keep everyone entertained during long stretches indoors.
- A little extra patience—winter storms have a way of testing even the most prepared among us!
5. Grab Your Free Winter Prepping Checklist
To make things easier, I have put together a free printable checklist that covers everything you need to prep for Winter weather.
This free checklist for prepping includes items above as well as items not listed in this article.
👉 FREE WINTER WEATHER PREPPING CHECKLIST
With a little planning, you can stay safe, warm, and comfortable no matter what the season brings.
Conclusion
Winter storms can catch you off guard if you’re not prepared, and since Helene hit here in the mountains…we’ve learned just how to prepare our home for the unexpected.
You don’t want to wait until 5 feet of snow falls to scramble for food, flashlights, warm blankets, and backup power sources.
Use the free checklist above to get stocked up and be prepared. Oh, and throw a box of hot cocoa packets on your prepping shelves. All you have to do is add hot water – it’s a simple pleasure to calm the nerves or cabin fever.
Also, we are big fans of getting outdoors and playing in nature. Make sure you have winter gear, then go out and enjoy playing in the snow – but know when to come in and avoid frostbite.
Preparing ahead not only keeps our family safe, but also saves us from that last-minute panic when the storm warnings start rolling in.
Before you go, here are more posts you’ll enjoy:
Emergency Planning for Kids and Pets | Free Checklist
What to Pack in a Car Emergency Kit
15 Natural Remedies for Immune Support
