- my iParenting
- quick clicks
- dads today articles
- dads today q&a
- community & groups
- research baby names
- prepare a birth plan
- content channels
- ip channel rss feeds
- read birth stories
- read parenting stories
- recommended books
- e-newsletters
- safety recalls
- ip diaries
- ip store
- mom of the month
- dad of the month
- editor's letter
- letters to the editor
From Our Sponsors
- e-newsletters
- Sign up to receive our free weekly e-newsletters
- award-winning products
The iParenting Media Awards program helps parents find the best products for their families.
Weather the Winter Safely
Tips for Your Home and Family
By Teri Brown
We're never ready for it. Even if we think we're prepared, it still comes as a surprise. The icy winds, the snow, the driving rains and frigid temperatures of that first winter storm still have the power to shock us, as if we had no idea the crisp days of autumn were ever going to end.
Mother Nature has a way of reminding us that no matter how technologically advanced we become, we are not immune to her fury. So when winter comes roaring in there are a few things we need to keep in mind to ensure the safety of ourselves and our loved ones.
Karen Lovett of Nauvoo, Ala., knows just how furious Mother Nature can become. With the tornados of last fall and the ice storms of the last few years, she has learned how important it is to be prepared.
"Last winter, we had tornados one week and ice storms the next," says Lovett. "With such rapid changes in storm fronts, it is very difficult to know what to plan for."
With only electric heat, Lovett has learned to keep the right supplies on hand. "Winter storms in Alabama are mostly ice or freezing rain," says Lovett. "When the storm starts, it will be rain, and as the temperatures drop, the trees start bowing and the power lines start snapping. I have stocked up on extra blankets. I have at least four blankets for each bed we have. Sweat suits and thick jackets are also hidden somewhere in the back of our closets."
The Lovetts have learned the hard way that they need to be prepared for winter storms, but many families neglect to do so.
"Many of the fires and cold weather-related emergencies that occur during this time of the year can be avoided," says Connie Harvey, the American Red Cross National Health and Safety expert. "As always with emergencies such as these, prevention and preparedness are key."
Preparedness includes readying your home for a winter storm, having an emergency kit on hand, knowing how to avoid hypothermia, checking on elderly neighbors and watching out for your pets' safety.