8 Ways to Avoid Winter Wonderland Woes

When you're prepared, a crisis becomes manageable. Here are our top eight tips to be ready for storms and illness this winter. (These tips are optional and may not apply to you.)

1. Get Vaccinated: If you are eligible, you may choose to get a flu and/or COVID-19 vaccination. This protects not only yourself from suffering, but also the people around you who cannot be vaccinated. You can find vaccinations at your doctor's office, some pharmacies, or check out: Immunizations | Salt Lake County.
2. Stay Up-to-Date: Download the FEMA app to stay up to date on incoming storms and emergencies FEMA Mobile Products | FEMA.gov
3. Build an Emergency Kit: Keep 5 days of water, food, medications for your family and pets in case of being snowed in, serious illness, or power outages. See Food in Kits | Be Ready Utah for more information building a small supply of easy access food.
4. Keep Winter Gear in Your Car: Always have winter boots, coats, gloves, a small or collapsible shovel and rock salt in your car in case you get stuck in the snow.
5. Prep Your Vehicle: Before the first snow storm, switch to winter tires, top off antifreeze and windshield fluid, and keep your gas tank at least half full.
6. Stay Warm: Keep blankets and non-electric heaters on hand.
7. Use Generators and Fireplaces Safely: Never operate fuel-powered generators or camping equipment indoors. Avoid using gas appliances like your oven, stove, or dryer for heating your home. Open the vents in your fireplace before lighting a fire. Misuse can cause carbon-monoxide poisoning.
8. Insulate: Cover windows with clear plastic during the day and with curtains or blankets at night to keep the heat in.