Worried About Getting Snowed In? Make Sure To Stock Up On These 10 Things
Snowstorms have a way of going from “oh, that looks pretty” to “wait… we’re stuck here” in just a few hours. Being snowed in doesn’t have to be scary, though. A little preparation keeps your home comfortable, your family safe, and your stress levels low. And planning for it now is the best way to prevent an emergency later. You may never need everything on this list, but you’ll be awfully glad you have it if the snow piles up.
Rock Salt Or Ice Melt
Before the storm even hits, treating your walkways and driveway with ice melt or salt makes a huge difference. It slows down the buildup of snow and ice so you’re not waking up to a solid frozen sheet in the morning. Even if you do get snowed in, having your paths treated gives you a safer start when it’s time to dig out. It’s quick work that pays off when you aren’t slipping and sliding all over the place.
A Good, Sturdy Snow Shovel
It sounds obvious, but a snow shovel that’s bent, cracked, or too small only makes snow removal harder. A comfortable handle and sturdy blade let you clear steps and walkways quickly. If you’re snowed in, your shovel (or snowblower) becomes your lifeline to getting out safely. And trust me, you don’t appreciate a good shovel until you’re halfway through heavy snow with a bad one.
An Emergency Car Kit, Even If You’re Home
You’re probably not driving anywhere during a storm, but having a car kit stocked with blankets, jumper cables, a flashlight, and a small shovel can still be a lifesaver. If the power goes out or you need a backup heat source, all you have to do is get to your car for blankets and warmth. Keep the kit ready year-round, and you won’t even have to worry the moment winter hits.
Batteries For Everything
Storms and power outages go hand in hand. Make sure you have batteries for flashlights, radios, lanterns, and anything else that keeps you connected or gives you light and warmth. When the house goes dark, fumbling for a flashlight only to find it dead is one of the most frustrating feelings. A few packs of different batteries can save you a whole lot of stress.
Shelf-Stable Food That Doesn’t Require Cooking
If the power goes out or the roads are completely blocked, having food you can eat without cooking becomes really important. Things like nuts, peanut butter, crackers, granola bars, and canned goods keep you going. You don’t need gourmet meals, just things that give you enough calories. Take some time now to build a “snow day pantry,” and it won’t let you down.
Drinking Water, Even If Your Tap Usually Works
Most people skip stocking bottled water because they assume the tap will keep running. But heavy snow can affect water pressure, and pipes freeze fast in extreme cold. A few gallons of drinking water gives you breathing room until everything thaws. It’s the sort of backup you hope you never need, but could save your life if something goes wrong.
Backup Heat Sources And Warm Layers
If the power goes out, staying warm is the top priority. Space blankets, extra layers, hand warmers, and thick socks all go a long way. A battery-powered or propane heater designed for indoor use can make the difference between “uncomfortably cold” and “dangerously cold.” When the temperature drops, having warmth ready gives you some control back.
A Fully Stocked First Aid Kit
Snowed in means you’re on your own for a bit. A good first aid kit with bandages, disinfectant, pain relievers, and basic supplies can handle any small emergencies that might happen in that time. Even minor mishaps, like slipping while shoveling, feel bigger when you can’t get to a pharmacy. A well-stocked kit turns those moments into manageable problems instead of crises.
Flashlights And A Portable Power Bank
Even if you have batteries, it’s smart to have a power bank charged and ready to go. Phones become essential during outages, whether for weather updates, texting family, or using them as a flashlight. A portable charger buys you hours of connection. Pair it with a couple of good flashlights, and getting around the house in the dark becomes much less stressful.
Entertainment To Keep Everyone Sane
Being snowed in can get boring fast, especially if screens die. Books, board games, puzzles, and even a deck of cards go a long way. They fill the quiet moments, distract from stress, and keep everyone’s spirits up. Sometimes it’s the simple things that make a snowed-in day feel cozy rather than claustrophobic.
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Getting snowed in doesn’t have to feel scary and overwhelming. With a few essentials on hand, you can turn a potentially stressful situation into something manageable. Winter storms may be unpredictable, but your preparation can help. Stock up now, breathe easy later, and let the snow fall knowing you’re ready for whatever comes.
Bliss Donahue-Power
