Trapped in a Blizzard: Your Guide to Survival
Blistering winds howl, snow whips the windows, and the world becomes a swirling whiteout. You’re caught in a blizzard, a fearsome winter monster that can test even the most seasoned survivor. But take a deep breath, because panic in the face of adversity is rarely a recipe for success. Instead, let’s equip you with the knowledge and tips to survive this icy ordeal.
Before the Blizzard Blows: Preparation is Key
Weather the Warning: Always heed blizzard warnings and weather advisories. Stock up on essentials like food, water, and medications well before the storm hits. Ensure your home is well-insulated and seal any drafts. One of the options that you have is having emergency food supplies. With a 25 year shelf life, you can’t go wrong.
Fuel Up Your Fortress: Fill your fuel tank, charge generators, stock up on batteries, and have alternative lighting options like candles or hand-cranked/solar powered lanterns ready. I can tell you that the Battery Daddy that I bought has been one of the best investments that I have made. I know that you would not regret it yourself.
Winterize Your Wheels: If you must drive, equip your car with snow tires and emergency supplies like a shovel, blankets, and jumper cables. Check tire pressure and keep the gas tank at least half full. Having a set of snow chains is always a good idea (you never know when you’re going to need them) as well as an emergency roadside kit. There are plenty of options to chose from that will fit your budget. You also have the option of creating one yourself. Just make sure that you have what you need with you.
Dress for the Deep Freeze: Layer up with warm, waterproof clothing. Make sure that all your warm clothes are easily accessible in case the power goes out. Yes, you will have your flashlight/lantern with you, but having everything in a central location will make it much easier if/when the time comes.
Get Certified in First Aid/CPR: It may not seem like it’s something that you should consider for a blizzard but it should be. As part of the certification, you will learn how to recognize and treat temperature emergencies, hypothermia being one of them. Having the ability to recognize the symptoms of hypothermia can and will be a real life saver. These trainings are very inexpensive and easy to find. You can search the American Red Cross or American Heart Association for their training schedule.
Plan Your Escape Route: Have a designated evacuation route in case you need to leave your home due to power outages or structural damage. Practice this evacuation route with your family on a regular basis so that everyone knows what to do and where to go. Plan and practice alternate evacuation routes as well. In the event of an evacuation, Murphy’s Law always seems to rear it’s head: anything that can go wrong, will go wrong.
Communicate Clearly: Inform family and friends of your location and plans before the storm hits. Keep communication lines open if possible, using battery-powered radios or satellite phones if necessary. This is key in case you do have to evacuate. If you have informed your friends/family that you are evacuating, and don’t show up at your destination, it will allow them to give that information to first responders so they have a starting point on where to look for you in case you got stranded.
When the Blizzard Bites: Staying Safe and Warm
Shelter From the Storm: Seek sturdy shelter immediately. Stay indoors if possible, and avoid venturing outside unless absolutely necessary. Let’s say that again for those in the rear: avoid venturing outside unless absolutely necessary.
Huddle for Heat: If power is out, huddle together with family and pets for warmth. Layer blankets and sleeping bags to create insulation. If you don’t have one, thermal blankets are your best bet. This reusable heavy duty survival blanket from Arcturus is a great addition to your vehicle, and for the price, you can have one for each member of your family.
Fire Up Safely: If you have a fireplace, use it only with dry firewood and proper ventilation. Never use grills or gas stoves for indoor heating, as they pose a carbon monoxide risk. One option that you have is to have a space heater plugged into a propane-powered generator that stays outside. It’s much easier to store propane tanks than it is fuel containers (and less odor). With a 9 hour run time on the average, it’ll get you through the night without having to swap tanks.
Munch on the Essentials: Conserve food and water supplies. Prioritize high-calorie snacks and melt snow for drinking water. Avoid eating unmelted snow, as it can lower your body temperature. Bonus tip: avoid yellow snow at all costs.
Lighten the Dark: Use candles or lanterns sparingly, being mindful of fire hazards. Conserve battery power for essential appliances and communications. One great option is to use glow sticks. Not only are they cheap (you can get a 50 pack for $18) but they last 8+ hours.
Keep Your Spirits High: Maintain mental wellbeing through activities like reading, playing games, or exercising indoors. Board games are a great option and you can get them for any age. Same with with a deck of cards. Hours will pass by before you know it. Stay connected with loved ones remotely to boost morale.
If You Must Get Out:
Don’t Go Rogue: Only venture outside if absolutely necessary, like seeking medical attention or escaping a structural collapse. Dress warmly and inform someone of your route and estimated return time. Refer back to the “Communicate Clearly” point above if needed.
Follow the Tracks: If it is not snowing and the wind isn’t blowing, walk in established footprints or shovel a path to avoid disorientation. Mark your trail with flags, brightly colored objects to ease your return. Glow sticks would work great as well. Just use the colored ones so they stand out during the day.
Stay on Course: Use a compass or GPS to navigate, avoiding open fields and exposed areas where wind chills can be treacherous. Make sure that you have entered and saved your destination coordinates from your evacuation plan into it so that you can just turn it on, pull it up, and get out. Do this for each handheld GPS you have for your family.
Beware the Whiteout: Blizzard conditions can cause severe whiteouts, making navigation nearly impossible. If caught in one, find immediate shelter and wait for the storm to pass.
Remember: Your body heat is your most valuable resource. Conserve it by minimizing movement and avoiding strenuous activity. Shelter from the wind and stay dry to prevent hypothermia.
Help is on the Way:
Stay tuned to emergency broadcasts for updates and rescue information. If possible, use communication devices to signal for help. Remember, rescuers prioritize those most at risk, so be patient and stay visible.
The Aftermath: Digging Out and Moving On
When the blizzard subsides, proceed with caution: Avoid downed power lines and weakened structures. Check on neighbors and offer assistance if needed. Clear snow from roofs and doorways to prevent ice dams and structural damage.
Document any property damage for insurance purposes: Documenting your property at least once a year is a great way to have before & after pictures for any storm that may have come through. It’s hard to say that something was pre-existing damage when you have the pictures to show otherwise.
Beyond the Blizzard: Lessons Learned
The experience of surviving a blizzard can be harrowing, but it can also be a powerful teaching moment. Use this knowledge to refine your preparedness for future storms. Share your lessons with others and help your community become more resilient to winter’s wrath.
By following these tips and maintaining a calm and resourceful mindset, you can significantly increase your chances of surviving a blizzard. Remember, preparation is key, knowledge is power, and hope is what keeps us warm in the face of adversity. So stay safe, stay strong, and remember, even the fiercest blizzard eventually melts away.
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