Project Trinetra / Preparedness / Winter Storm Winter Storm Cold is manageable when you plan ahead and look out for each other
8 things to do before · 9 steps during · 8 after · 5 questions answered
Last updated 2026-09-25 . Written by Project Trinetra, a program of the 501(c)(3) nonprofit Unravel The Love. It is not an official government publication and does not replace instructions from your local emergency authorities.
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Open the live map Before — Winterize Your Home & VehicleWinter storms can cut power for days. Preparation keeps your family warm and safe.
# Do this 1 Insulate pipes and know how to prevent freezing 2 Service your heating system before winter 3 Winterize vehicle (antifreeze, tires, wipers, emergency kit) 4 Stock rock salt or sand for walkways 5 Have extra blankets and warm clothing accessible 6 If using wood heat, stockpile seasoned firewood 7 Test carbon monoxide detectors (critical during storm) 8 Stock food that requires no cooking (power may be out)
During — During a Winter StormStay inside and conserve heat. Frostbite and hypothermia are the primary threats.
# Step 1 Stay indoors -- limit trips outside to essential needs only 2 Layer clothing: base layer (wicking), insulating layer, outer shell 3 Close off unused rooms to conserve heat 4 If power goes out, use one room as a warm room -- hang blankets over doorways 5 Never use a gas oven or charcoal grill for heating -- carbon monoxide danger 6 Keep faucets dripping slightly to prevent pipe freezing 7 If driving is unavoidable, keep emergency kit in car and tell someone your route 8 Watch for signs of frostbite: numbness, white/gray skin, clumsiness 9 Watch for signs of hypothermia: shivering, confusion, slurred speech
After — After the StormIce and snow create lingering hazards. Take recovery one step at a time.
# Step 1 Clear snow from walkways carefully -- overexertion causes heart attacks 2 Check on elderly and vulnerable neighbors 3 If pipes froze, thaw slowly with a hair dryer -- never a blowtorch 4 Watch for ice dams on roof -- they can cause interior water damage 5 Be cautious of black ice on roads and walkways 6 Restock emergency supplies that were used 7 Check for roof damage from ice and snow weight 8 Allow extra travel time -- roads may still be hazardous
Supplies specific to this hazard · Hand and body warmers · Ice scraper and snow shovel · Rock salt or kitty litter for traction · Extra blankets and sleeping bags · Insulated water bottles Questions people ask How do I stay warm without power? When the power goes out in winter:
· Gather everyone in one room — body heat adds up· Seal the room : Close doors, hang blankets over windows and doorways· Layer clothing : Wool or synthetic layers trap heat. Wear a hat — you lose significant heat through your head· Use sleeping bags — they're warmer than blankets because they trap your body heat· Eat high-calorie foods — your body burns more calories staying warmNEVER use : Gas ovens, grills, or generators indoors. Carbon monoxide is odorless and kills silently.
Full Winter Storm guide — before, during and after → What are the signs of hypothermia? Watch for these signs of hypothermia (when body temperature drops dangerously low):
Early signs : Shivering, confusion, fumbling hands, slurred speech, drowsiness
Severe signs : Shivering stops (this is more dangerous), stiff muscles, slow breathing, loss of consciousness
What to do :
· Move them to a warm area · Remove wet clothing, wrap in dry blankets · Warm the center of the body first (chest, neck, groin) · Give warm (not hot) beverages if they're conscious · Call 911 for severe symptoms Infants and elderly are at highest risk. Check on vulnerable neighbors frequently.
Full Winter Storm guide — before, during and after → How much food and water should I store? For winter storm preparedness:
- Peanut butter, crackers, canned goods (with manual opener)
- Dried fruit, nuts, granola bars
- Infant formula if needed
· Water : 1 gallon per person per day for at least 3 days (7 is better for winter storms that can isolate you)· Food : Non-perishable, no-cook items for 3-7 days· Medications : 7-day supply minimumDon't forget pet food. If your area regularly loses power for extended periods, consider a longer supply.
Winter Storm preparation checklist → Is it safe to use my car for warmth? Your car can provide temporary warmth, but with critical safety rules:
· Only run the engine for 10-15 minutes per hour to conserve fuel· Crack a window slightly for ventilation· Make sure the exhaust pipe is NOT blocked by snow — carbon monoxide can back up into the car and kill you· Keep the interior dome light on so rescuers can see you It's better to stay with your car than try to walk in a blizzard. Tie a bright cloth to the antenna for visibility.
Full Winter Storm guide — before, during and after → How do I prevent pipes from freezing? Frozen pipes can burst and cause thousands in water damage:
· Let faucets drip — even a trickle prevents freezing· Open cabinet doors under sinks to let warm air reach pipes· Insulate exposed pipes in attics, basements, and crawl spaces with foam sleeves· Keep your thermostat at 55°F or higher , even if you leave the house· Know where your main water shutoff is — if a pipe bursts, you need to act fastIf a pipe freezes, apply gentle heat with a hair dryer or warm towels. Never use an open flame.
Winter Storm preparation checklist → Quick facts · If the power goes out in winter, gather everyone in one room — body heat adds up. · NEVER use gas ovens, grills, or generators indoors. Carbon monoxide kills silently. · Let faucets drip during freezing weather — even a trickle prevents pipe freezing. · Keep your thermostat at 55°F or higher, even when leaving the house in winter. · When shivering stops during cold exposure, it's more dangerous — seek help immediately. ← All preparedness guides
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