The quiet dangers are cold, carbon monoxide and the car. Most of the plan is done before the storm, while forecasts still give several days of notice.
Keep the gas tank near full, put supplies in the car, protect water lines on exterior walls, and make sure every sleeping area has a carbon monoxide detector.
Before the storm
- Check the heater, defroster, brakes, battery and tires.
- Keep blankets, a flashlight, water, snacks, first aid supplies, a shovel, a scraper, jumper cables and cat litter or sand in the car.
- Bring pets indoors, or give them shelter and unfrozen water.
Heat without harm
- Have the furnace and vent checked each winter.
- Test the battery carbon monoxide detectors monthly.
- Never burn charcoal indoors or run a car in an attached garage, even with the door open.
- CO symptoms look like the flu, and people who are asleep can die before symptoms appear.
Cold on the body
- Hypothermia in adults looks like shivering, exhaustion, confusion, fumbling hands, slurred speech or drowsiness. In infants, bright red, cold skin and very low energy.
- Below 95°F body temperature, get medical help right away. Move them somewhere warm, remove wet clothing and wrap them in dry blankets.
- Do not rub frostbite. Use warm, not hot, water or body heat, and see a provider.
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Winter storms guide
A short guide to staying warm when roads and power go out.
Our power-out plan
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Go bag, car kit and car readiness
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Sources: CDC, Preparing for a Winter Storm, Hypothermia and Frostbite, and Carbon Monoxide; FoodSafety.gov. Checked October 2026. If someone seems very cold and confused, call 911.
General information for families, not legal, medical or financial advice. In an emergency, follow local officials and call 911.
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