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Cold Weather

AVOID COLD WEATHER MISERY

The leaves are long gone. It is not too late to prepare for cold weather. Imagine that there will be at least one four day power outage in sub-zero temperatures this season. How would you cope? What would you need to survive until either power is restored or you are relocated? Here is a basic list of things to do to get ready for an emergency.

1. Get your flu shot.

2. Collect and store the following in a closet:

• Battery operated radio.

• Flashlights with extra batteries.

• Candles and matches.

• One gallon bottled water per person per day.

• A first aid kit.

• A four-day supply of essential medications, stored properly and rotated for freshness.

• Toilet paper, paper towels soap and essential toiletries.

• Canned or packaged food that does not require cooking plus a can opener.

• Extra set of house and car keys, some cash or travelers checks, extra set of glasses.

• Warm blanket or sleeping bag.

• Age and interest related reading materials, games or toys to provide diversion.

• A list of family or friend addresses and telephone numbers.

3. Check your wardrobe.

Inspect each item of winter clothing. You need serviceable warm underwear, pants, socks, boots, hats, sweaters, coat, gloves or mittens, a neck scarf, a breather scarf, and sunglasses. Get a group together for a shopping trip to a used clothing store.

4. Winterize your car.

5. Help a neighbor.

Many people cannot think in advance to prepare. Check on a neighbor for preparedness. If you live in an apartment building, this could be a fun project for the monthly get together.

Good intentions are worthless. We all know that emergencies happen when we least expect. Give yourself a gold star for making a contingency plan for winter.