How to Prepare for Blizzards: Your Complete Winter Storm Survival Guide

When winter’s fury unleashes a blizzard, the combination of heavy snow, fierce winds, and plummeting temperatures can transform familiar landscapes into dangerous environments within hours. According to the National Weather Service, blizzards claim dozens of lives annually in the United States, with property damage often reaching into the millions of dollars. At Batten Home Security, we’ve found that homeowners who take proactive steps before winter weather hits are significantly better positioned to protect their families and properties when severe storms arrive. This comprehensive guide will walk you through practical, proven strategies to prepare your home, vehicle, and family for blizzard conditions.

Understanding Blizzard Warnings and What They Mean

Blizzards aren’t simply heavy snowfalls. The National Weather Service officially defines a blizzard as a storm with large amounts of snow or blowing snow, winds exceeding 35 mph, and visibility of less than ¼ mile for at least three hours. This distinction matters because blizzard conditions create unique safety challenges beyond typical winter storms. When working with families in snow-prone regions, we emphasize that understanding weather alerts provides crucial lead time for final preparations.

The three main winter storm alerts you need to know include:

Winter Storm Watch: Issued when conditions are favorable for a blizzard, heavy snow, freezing rain, or sleet within 24-48 hours. This is your signal to begin preparations.
Winter Storm Warning: Issued when 5+ inches of snow/sleet is expected in the next 24 hours. At this point, your preparations should be nearly complete.
Blizzard Warning: The most serious alert, indicating that blizzard conditions (heavy snow, winds 35+ mph, visibility below ¼ mile) are expected within 24 hours or are already occurring. When this warning is issued, you should be in your final preparation stages.

Creating Your Home Blizzard Preparedness Plan

The foundation of blizzard readiness begins with a comprehensive home preparation strategy. Data from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) shows that homes without adequate winterization face up to 15% higher risk of damage during severe winter storms. Based on our experience helping homeowners through winter emergencies, we’ve found that addressing six key areas significantly reduces both safety risks and potential property damage.

Home Winterization Checklist

Proper home winterization isn’t just about comfort—it’s about survival during extended blizzard conditions. According to the Department of Energy, homes with proper insulation and weatherproofing can maintain safe interior temperatures up to 72% longer during power outages compared to unprepared homes. This critical buffer time can make the difference between a manageable situation and a dangerous one, especially for households with elderly members or young children.

Insulate water pipes in unheated areas using foam pipe insulation, particularly those along exterior walls
Seal drafts around windows and doors with weatherstripping or caulk
Clean gutters to prevent ice dams that can damage roofs
Inspect your roof for damaged shingles that might give way under heavy snow
Trim tree branches that could fall on power lines or your home during high winds
Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and replace batteries if needed
Have your heating system inspected by a professional before winter weather arrives
Clean chimneys and flues if you use a fireplace or wood stove
Install storm windows or cover windows with plastic from the inside for added insulation

Power Outage Preparations

Extended power outages are among the most dangerous consequences of blizzards, with the U.S. Department of Energy reporting that winter storms and cold weather caused more than 15% of all major power outages in the last decade. When temperatures drop below freezing, a home without heat can quickly become uninhabitable. Many of the families we work with have experienced multi-day outages during severe winter storms, making alternative power and heating options essential components of blizzard preparation.

Purchase a generator if possible, with enough capacity to power essential heating and refrigeration (always operate generators outdoors, at least 20 feet from doors and windows)
Stock up on fuel for generators, kerosene heaters, or wood stoves
Invest in battery-powered or hand-crank emergency lights and place them in accessible locations throughout your home
Keep mobile phones and backup battery packs fully charged when a storm is approaching
Have a battery-powered or hand-crank NOAA weather radio to stay informed if internet and cell service are disrupted
Consider solar chargers for small devices if you live in an area prone to extended outages
Know how to manually override electric garage doors and security gates

For those seeking reliable power backup solutions, we’ve seen excellent results with the Jackery Explorer 5000 Plus portable power station, which provides enough capacity to run essential appliances during extended outages while being safe for indoor use.

Emergency Food and Water Supply

During severe blizzards, roads can remain impassable for days, cutting off access to grocery stores and other supplies. The American Red Cross recommends preparing for at least 72 hours of self-sufficiency, but in rural areas or regions prone to extreme winter weather, we typically recommend preparing for 5-7 days. Studies from the National Center for Disaster Preparedness show that households with adequate emergency supplies experience significantly less stress and better outcomes during extended weather emergencies.

Store at least one gallon of water per person per day for drinking and sanitation (minimum 3-day supply, preferably 7 days)
Stock non-perishable, easy-to-prepare foods that don’t require cooking if power is out
Include special dietary items for infants, elderly family members, or those with medical needs
Don’t forget pet food and extra water for household animals
Keep a manual can opener with your emergency supplies
Rotate food supplies regularly to ensure freshness
Consider freeze-dried emergency meal kits with long shelf lives

For comprehensive emergency food solutions, many of our clients have found success with Nutrient Survival’s 14-Day Family Food Kit, which provides nutritionally complete meals requiring minimal preparation.

Medical and First Aid Preparations

Medical emergencies during blizzards are particularly dangerous due to potential delays in emergency response. According to the American College of Emergency Physicians, response times for ambulances can increase by 300% or more during severe winter weather. This reality makes having comprehensive medical supplies and knowledge particularly important. Based on recommendations from emergency medicine professionals, we suggest preparing a blizzard-specific medical kit that addresses common winter emergencies.

Assemble a complete first aid kit including bandages, antiseptic, pain relievers, and prescription medications
Ensure at least a 7-day supply of essential prescription medications for each family member
Include cold-specific items like chemical hand warmers, hypothermia blankets, and electrolyte solutions
Keep a list of important medical information including conditions, medications, allergies, and doctor contacts
Consider taking a basic first aid and CPR course before winter weather season
Include specific supplies for family members with chronic conditions or special needs

Vehicle Preparation for Winter Storm Safety

Being stranded in a vehicle during a blizzard represents one of the most dangerous winter scenarios. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that over 1,300 deaths and more than 116,800 injuries occur annually from vehicle crashes on snowy, slushy, or icy roads. Even more concerning, being stranded in a disabled vehicle during extreme cold can lead to hypothermia within hours. We’ve worked with numerous families to develop comprehensive vehicle emergency kits that have proven essential during unexpected winter travel emergencies.

Winter Vehicle Maintenance

Preventative maintenance significantly reduces the risk of breakdown during winter driving. According to AAA, proper winter vehicle preparation can reduce the likelihood of weather-related breakdowns by up to 70%. Before winter weather arrives, schedule a comprehensive vehicle check-up that addresses these critical systems:

Test your battery – cold weather reduces battery capacity by up to 50%
Check antifreeze levels and condition to prevent freeze-ups
Inspect tires for adequate tread (at least 3/32″) and consider snow tires for severe winter areas
Verify that your heating system and defrosters are working properly
Replace worn wiper blades with winter-specific blades if available
Keep your gas tank at least half full during winter to prevent fuel line freeze and provide running heat if stranded
Have brakes inspected before winter weather arrives

Vehicle Emergency Kit Essentials

A comprehensive vehicle emergency kit can be lifesaving during a blizzard. Research from the National Safety Council indicates that properly equipped vehicles provide occupants with critical survival resources that can sustain them until help arrives—which during severe blizzards might be 24 hours or longer. From our experience helping families prepare for winter emergencies, these items have proven most valuable in real-world situations:

Blankets or sleeping bags – at least one per passenger
Extra warm clothing including hats, mittens, and boots
High-energy, non-perishable food like energy bars
Water in containers that won’t burst if frozen
First aid kit with pocket knife
Necessary medications if you take prescriptions regularly
Battery-powered radio with extra batteries
Flashlight with extra batteries
Chemical hand warmers
Small shovel and ice scraper
Bag of sand or cat litter for traction
Tow rope or chain
Jumper cables or portable jump starter
Reflective triangles or flares
Charged power bank for cell phones
Paper maps of your area (don’t rely solely on GPS)

For a comprehensive vehicle emergency solution, the Uncharted Auto Bundle provides essential tools and supplies specifically designed for winter travel emergencies.

Communication Planning for Blizzard Scenarios

When blizzard conditions strike, standard communication channels often fail. The Federal Communications Commission reports that approximately 25% of cell towers become inoperable during severe winter storms due to power outages or physical damage. This communication breakdown can leave families isolated and uninformed during critical periods. Establishing redundant communication methods and clear family emergency plans significantly improves outcomes during severe winter weather events.

Family Emergency Communication Plan

Creating a detailed family communication plan ensures everyone knows what to do if separated during a blizzard. According to FEMA’s preparedness research, families with established emergency plans are able to reunite and confirm safety up to 74% faster than those without such plans. When developing blizzard communication strategies with families, we emphasize these key components:

Designate an out-of-area contact person who can serve as a central point of communication
Ensure everyone has emergency contact numbers memorized or written down (not just stored in phones)
Establish meeting places both within your neighborhood and outside your area
Practice your communication plan before winter weather season
Create a contact card for each family member to carry in wallets, backpacks, or purses
Discuss how to communicate if cell networks are down or power is out

Alternative Communication Methods

When traditional communication systems fail during blizzards, alternative methods become essential. The Cellular Telecommunications Industry Association reports that during major winter storms, text messages have a significantly higher delivery success rate than voice calls due to their lower bandwidth requirements. Based on this data and our experience with winter emergency scenarios, we recommend preparing these alternative communication options:

Battery-powered or hand-crank NOAA weather radio to receive emergency broadcasts
Two-way radios (walkie-talkies) with fresh batteries for local communication
Whistle to signal for help if needed
Portable cell phone chargers and backup batteries
Pre-written emergency messages for texting (which uses less bandwidth than calls)
Signal mirror for daytime visual signaling
Consider satellite communication devices for rural areas or frequent travelers

During the Blizzard: Safety Protocols

How you respond during an active blizzard can significantly impact your safety and survival. According to the National Weather Service, over 70% of winter storm fatalities occur outdoors, with many victims found less than 100 yards from safety. Understanding proper blizzard behavior and making informed decisions about whether to shelter in place or evacuate can be lifesaving. The following guidelines are based on official recommendations from emergency management agencies and our experience supporting families through severe winter weather events.

Shelter-in-Place Safety

In most blizzard scenarios, staying home is the safest option. Research from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention indicates that unnecessary travel during blizzard conditions accounts for a significant percentage of winter storm-related injuries and fatalities. When sheltering at home during a blizzard, follow these critical safety practices:

Stay indoors and avoid all unnecessary travel
Close off unused rooms to consolidate and preserve heat
Stuff towels or rags in cracks under doors to minimize drafts
Cover windows at night with blankets, sheets, or drapes for insulation
Eat regularly and drink plenty of fluids but avoid caffeine and alcohol
Wear layers of loose-fitting, lightweight, warm clothing rather than one heavy layer
Monitor body temperature, especially in elderly individuals and young children
Conserve fuel by keeping your house cooler than normal and temporarily closing off heat to some rooms

Power Outage Safety

Extended power outages during blizzards create additional hazards that require specific safety measures. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission reports that carbon monoxide poisoning incidents increase by over 50% during winter storms, primarily from improper use of alternative heating and power sources. Based on these statistics and real-world emergency response data, we recommend these critical safety practices during blizzard-related power outages:

Never use generators, grills, camp stoves, or other gasoline, propane, natural gas, or charcoal-burning devices inside a home, garage, basement, or any partially enclosed area
Keep these devices at least 20 feet from doors, windows, and vents that could allow carbon monoxide to come indoors
Use battery-powered lights instead of candles when possible
If using candles, keep them away from curtains and other flammable materials and never leave them unattended
Keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed as much as possible
Disconnect appliances and electronics to avoid damage from electrical surges when power is restored
Leave one light switch in the “on” position so you’ll know when power returns
Avoid opening exterior doors to conserve heat

If You Must Travel During a Blizzard

While staying home during a blizzard is strongly recommended, sometimes travel becomes unavoidable due to medical emergencies or other critical situations. According to the Federal Highway Administration, nearly 70% of winter weather-related vehicle accidents occur when snow or ice is present on the roadway. If you absolutely must travel during blizzard conditions, these practices—based on recommendations from emergency response professionals—can significantly improve your chances of safe arrival:

Inform someone of your route, destination, and expected arrival time
Travel during daylight hours if possible and with at least one other person
Stay on main roads and avoid shortcuts or unfamiliar routes
Keep your gas tank near full to prevent ice in the fuel lines and to ensure you can run the engine for heat if stranded
Drive slowly and increase following distance to at least 8-10 seconds
If you become stranded, stay with your vehicle which provides temporary shelter and makes you easier to find
Run the engine and heater about 10 minutes each hour to keep warm
Clear snow from the exhaust pipe to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning
Use your emergency supplies and put on extra layers of clothing
Move your body to maintain circulation and warmth
Take turns sleeping if you’re not alone, with one person always awake to look for rescue crews
Tie a brightly colored cloth to your antenna or door to signal distress

After the Blizzard: Recovery and Assessment

The aftermath of a blizzard presents its own set of challenges and hazards. According to the Insurance Information Institute, winter storms cause approximately $1 billion in insured losses annually, with a significant portion occurring after the storm has passed. From our experience helping families recover from severe winter weather events, we’ve found that a systematic approach to post-blizzard assessment and recovery significantly reduces both safety risks and property damage.

Home Safety Assessment

Before returning to normal activities after a blizzard, conduct a thorough safety assessment of your home. The National Fire Protection Association reports that home heating equipment is the second leading cause of home fires, with incidents spiking after power is restored following outages. Follow this systematic approach to evaluate your home’s condition:

Check for roof damage from snow load, ice dams, or fallen branches
Inspect pipes for freezing or bursting as temperatures rise
Look for signs of structural damage like cracks, leaning walls, or doors that won’t close properly
Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors to ensure they’re still functioning
Examine electrical systems before turning everything back on if power was out
Check heating systems for proper operation before relying on them
Document any damage with photos for insurance purposes

Snow Removal Safety

Snow removal after a blizzard is physically demanding and potentially dangerous. The American Heart Association warns that the risk of heart attack increases significantly during snow shoveling, particularly among people who are usually sedentary. Additionally, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission reports over 100 deaths and thousands of injuries annually related to snow removal. Follow these safety guidelines when clearing snow:

Wait until the storm has completely passed before beginning major snow removal
Dress warmly in layers with waterproof outer garments
Stretch before starting to prepare your muscles
Use proper lifting technique – lift with your legs, not your back
Take frequent breaks and stay hydrated
Use the appropriate equipment for the job – shovels for light snow, snow blowers for deeper accumulations
Clear snow from vents, exhaust pipes, and dryer vents to prevent carbon monoxide buildup
Be cautious on ladders when removing snow from roofs
Watch for signs of hypothermia or frostbite while working outdoors

Community Support and Checking on Neighbors

After a blizzard, community resilience becomes crucial for recovery. Research from the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine shows that communities with strong social connections experience faster recovery and fewer negative health outcomes following disasters. From our work with neighborhood preparedness programs, we’ve seen how simple acts of community support significantly improve outcomes for vulnerable populations after severe winter weather:

Check on elderly or disabled neighbors who may need assistance
Share resources like generators, tools, or supplies with those in need
Help clear walkways and driveways for those unable to do so themselves
Organize community snow removal efforts for public areas
Report downed power lines or other hazards to appropriate authorities
Coordinate transportation for medical appointments or essential errands
Consider establishing a neighborhood communication system for future emergencies

Special Considerations for Vulnerable Populations

Blizzards pose heightened risks for certain vulnerable populations. According to the CDC, adults aged 65 and older are disproportionately affected by winter weather emergencies, experiencing higher rates of hypothermia, falls, and isolation-related complications. Similarly, households with young children, individuals with disabilities, or those with chronic medical conditions face unique challenges during severe winter weather. Based on guidelines from public health agencies and our experience supporting diverse households through winter emergencies, we recommend these specialized preparations for vulnerable populations:

Elderly and Individuals with Mobility Challenges

Older adults and those with mobility limitations face specific risks during blizzards. The National Institute on Aging reports that older adults lose body heat faster than when they were young, and may not even realize they are becoming dangerously cold. Additionally, limited mobility can prevent quick evacuation or self-rescue in emergency situations. These specialized preparations address the unique needs of these vulnerable groups:

Arrange for someone to check on them regularly during the storm
Ensure easy access to emergency contacts including neighbors who live nearby
Place emergency supplies in easily accessible locations
Consider medical alert systems that work without internet
Have backup power for essential medical equipment
Prepare extra medications and medical supplies to last at least 7-10 days
Place non-slip mats at entrances and in bathrooms
Keep walkways clear and treated with salt or sand
Consider temporary relocation before severe storms if living alone

Families with Young Children

Households with infants and young children face distinct challenges during blizzards. According to pediatric emergency specialists, children lose body heat more rapidly than adults and require special attention during prolonged power outages or home heating emergencies. Based on recommendations from the American Academy of Pediatrics and our work with families, these preparations address the specific needs of households with young children:

Stock extra supplies of diapers, formula, and baby food
Prepare shelf-stable milk alternatives if your child depends on milk
Have pediatric fever reducers and common medications on hand
Keep extra warm clothing and blankets specifically for children
Prepare activities that don’t require electricity to keep children occupied
Consider safe alternative heating options specifically for children’s sleeping areas
Have a plan for keeping formula or breast milk safe during power outages
Discuss emergency plans with children in age-appropriate ways

Individuals with Medical Needs

People with chronic medical conditions or those dependent on powered medical equipment face life-threatening risks during blizzard-related power outages. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services reports that approximately 2.5 million Medicare beneficiaries rely on electricity-dependent medical equipment. For these individuals, blizzard preparation goes beyond comfort to become a matter of survival. These specialized preparations address critical medical needs during winter emergencies:

Register with local emergency services as having medical needs
Have backup power sources for all critical medical equipment
Keep at least a 7-10 day supply of prescription medications
Maintain a detailed list of medications, dosages, and medical contacts
Consider medical ID bracelets with critical information
Have a backup plan for treatments normally received outside the home
Prepare an evacuation plan to a facility with backup power if needed
Communicate with healthcare providers about emergency plans before winter

Final Thoughts: The Importance of Practice and Preparation

The most effective blizzard preparedness plans are those that have been practiced and refined before an emergency occurs. FEMA research indicates that households that regularly review and practice their emergency plans are up to three times more likely to successfully execute those plans during actual emergencies. At Batten Home Security, we’ve observed that families who conduct seasonal “preparedness drills” respond more confidently and effectively when real emergencies arise.

As winter approaches, take time to review your blizzard preparedness plan with all household members. Discuss specific responsibilities, communication procedures, and decision-making protocols. Consider conducting a “blizzard simulation” weekend where you practice using your emergency supplies and alternative heating methods. This hands-on experience can reveal gaps in your preparations while building confidence in your ability to handle a real emergency.

Remember that blizzard preparedness isn’t about fear—it’s about empowerment. By taking proactive steps to protect your home and family, you’re creating peace of mind that allows you to face winter weather with confidence rather than anxiety. The time invested in preparation pays dividends not just in physical safety, but in the psychological security of knowing you’re ready for whatever winter brings.

Want to ensure your home is fully protected year-round? Browse Batten’s expert-recommended home security tools — from smart monitoring systems to emergency preparedness essentials — and start protecting what matters most.

Sources used for this article:

National Weather Service Winter Storm Safety, https://www.weather.gov/safety/winter
FEMA Winter Storm Preparedness Guide, https://www.ready.gov/winter-weather
American Red Cross Winter Storm Safety, https://www.redcross.org/get-help/how-to-prepare-for-emergencies/types-of-emergencies/winter-storm.html
CDC Winter Weather Emergency Preparedness, https://www.cdc.gov/disasters/winter/index.html