Winter in Rochester is no stranger to heavy snowfalls and frigid temperatures, but severe snowstorms can still catch families off guard if they’re not properly prepared. As a mom, ensuring your family’s safety and comfort during these storms requires a mix of planning, organization, and creativity. From stocking up on essentials to keeping everyone warm and entertained, a little foresight can make all the difference. Whether it’s your first snowy season in Rochester or you’re a seasoned winter warrior, these tips will help you stay ahead of the storm and protect your loved ones when the snow starts piling up and the temperature drops.
1. Stock Up on Essentials
- Food and Water: Gather non-perishable food items and enough drinking water for at least 3 days (1 gallon per person per day).
- Baby and Kid Supplies: Ensure you have diapers, formula, snacks, and other necessities for younger children.
- Medications: Refill any prescriptions and keep a first-aid kit handy.
2. Prepare for Power Outages
- Lighting: Have flashlights, extra batteries, and candles ready.
- Heating: Ensure you have extra blankets, hand warmers, and a backup heating source if possible (e.g., a generator or wood-burning stove).
- Devices: Charge phones, power banks, and any other essential electronics in advance.
3. Ready the Home
- Insulation: Seal windows and doors to prevent drafts.
- Outdoor Preparations: Bring in or secure outdoor furniture and tools; make sure snow removal equipment like shovels and salt is accessible.
- Pipes: Insulate exposed pipes and let faucets drip to prevent freezing.
4. Check Heating and Ventilation Systems
- Furnace Maintenance: Make sure your heating system is working efficiently, and replace filters if necessary.
- Fireplace and Chimney: Inspect and clean if you plan to use them.
- Carbon Monoxide Detectors: Test detectors to ensure they’re functioning properly.
5. Prepare Your Vehicle
- Emergency Kit: Stock your car with essentials like blankets, water, snacks, a flashlight, jumper cables, a first-aid kit, and a snow shovel.
- Fuel: Keep the gas tank at least half full to avoid fuel line freeze and ensure mobility if needed.
- Tires: Check tire tread and pressure; consider snow chains or winter tires if you live in a snowy area.
6. Plan for Pets
- Pet Supplies: Have enough pet food, water, and any medications your pets need.
- Shelter: Keep pets indoors and ensure they have a warm and safe space.
7. Create a Family Emergency Plan
- Communication: Ensure everyone knows how to contact each other if separated.
- Emergency Numbers: Keep a list of emergency contacts handy.
- Warming Shelters: If the temperature or wind chill falls below 32 degrees in Monroe County, anyone in need of shelter can board an RTS bus and request to be taken to a warming shelter as a part of the new Code Blue Program. No ID, passes, or money is required. This program is available at any bus stop in the city. For a list of the RTS bus routes throughout Monroe County, click here. List of warming sites in Monroe County:
- Mission, 210 W Main Street, RTS Routes: 16, 17, 18, 19, 20
- House of Mercy, 285 Ormond Street, RTS Route 3
- Saving Grace Ministries, 1140 Norton Street, Rochester, RTS Route 4, 5
- Oak Orchard, 300 West Avenue, Brockport, NY, No RTS Route
8. Stay Informed
- Weather Alerts: Sign up for local weather alerts on your phone or radio.
- News Updates: Monitor local news stations or apps for storm updates, road closures, and emergency instructions.
9. Review Financial and Insurance Preparedness
- Emergency Funds: Have some cash on hand in case ATMs or card systems are down.
- Insurance Policies: Check that your homeowners or renters insurance covers storm-related damage.
- Important Documents: Keep essential paperwork in a waterproof and easily accessible container.
10. Entertainment and Comfort
- Comfort Items: Have cozy blankets, favorite snacks, and maybe a small treat to maintain morale.
- Activities: Gather books, games, puzzles, or crafts to keep kids entertained if stuck indoors.
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