The number of blizzards in the U.S. has increased by almost a factor of four since the mid-20th century and, although Idaho does not regularly experience many “blizzards,” many Idaho towns are not properly prepared for major winter weather events. Idaho currently ranks 18th in the nation for annual snowfall. During extreme winter events the roads may shut down, stores can sell out of life saving resources, and many people can become trapped inside their homes for long periods.

 

Surviving Ongoing Severe Winter Weather

  1. Stay warm and indoors as much as possible to prevent frostbite and hypothermia.
  2. Before the winter season begins, make sure you can heat your home safely. Prepare your home to keep out the cold with insulation, caulking, and weather stripping. Talk to your landlord if you are concerned about how your home is weatherproofed.
  3. Consider using an indoor thermometer or thermostat to monitor the temperature inside.
  4. Plan to check on loved ones and neighbors to make sure they are staying warm. This is especially important for older adults, folks with disabilities, and babies.
  5. If you must go outside, plan to dress properly. Keep your nose, ears, cheeks, chin, fingers, and toes covered in warm, dry clothing. These areas are the first to be at risk for frostbite. Wear layers of loose clothing, a coat, hat, mittens, and water-resistant boots. Use a scarf to cover your face and mouth.
  6. Know where you will go if your home becomes too cold. You could go to a friend’s house, a public library, or a warming center. For help locating an Idaho warming center near you: text 898211 or call 2-1-1 or 800-926-2588 to get information from a community resource specialist.
  7. Get free emergency alerts through the Idaho State Alert and Warning System. Plan to monitor local weather and news:
    https://public.alertsense.com/SignUp/PublicUser.aspx?regionid=1135
  8. Have a backup battery or a way to charge your cell phone and any other life saving devices that you rely on as well as a battery-powered radio to use during a power outage. Consider buying a generator that can charge your devices if the power is out.
  9. You may lose access to drinking water. Set aside at least one gallon of drinking water per person per day and learn how to keep pipes from freezing:
    https://www.redcross.org/get-help/how-to-prepare-for-emergencies/types-of-emergencies/winter-storm/frozen-pipes.html
  10. Consider having emergency supplies in your vehicle as well, such as a blanket, warm clothing, a first aid kit, and boots.
  11. Stock up a 1-month supply of needed medications and medical supplies. Consider keeping a list of your medications and dosages on a small card to carry with you.