Staying safe in winter weather

Winter weather can bring extreme cold, snow, ice, power outages, and travel disruptions that may affect health and safety. Preparing ahead of time can help clients, families, and caregivers stay safe before, during, and after winter storms. Make sure your home is ready by planning for possible power outages, using heating equipment safely, and installing working smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Never use ovens, gas stoves, or grills to heat your home. If you need to travel, check weather and road conditions in advance and keep an emergency kit in your vehicle with blankets, food, water, medications, and phone chargers. When preparing, consider individual needs such as medical equipment, mobility supports, communication needs, or assistance animals, and include these in your emergency plan and supply kit. Winter weather can be unpredictable, but taking simple steps now can help keep you and those you support safe and prepared. For more winter preparedness tips, visit Ready.gov’s Winter Weather Preparedness page.