Here in the Midwest, we are more than familiar with the frigid temperatures and inclement weather that comes along with winter. That doesn’t always mean we’re ready for it when it hits, though. If you want to be properly prepared next time you see a winter storm in the forecast, we’ve outlined four steps to make sure you’re ready.

1. Gather Supplies.

One of the most important factors in being able to shelter in place is ensuring you have adequate supplies to help prevent you from getting out in any dangerous conditions during a winter storm.

Make sure you grocery shop well before the storm is supposed to hit – stocking up on nonperishables like pasta, rice, bread, cereal, and any food that’s ready-to-eat. Try to keep it as nutritionally dense as possible, but the most important thing is ensuring you’ll be able to eat it without needing to fire up the stove since it might not work if the power is out. It’s also a good idea to stock up on bottled water in case you end up in the worst case scenario and your pipes freeze.

In addition, make sure you stock up on any electronic power you may need. Invest in portable chargers and battery powered radios so you can stay informed and in contact even if the power is out. If you’re in a location that often gets hit with severe winter weather, it might be a good idea to invest in a generator so you don’t lose power continuously throughout the season.

2. Prepare an Emergency Kit.

While having an emergency kit is a good idea for any disaster event, it’s especially important to make sure you have winter specific supplies included. Things like extra blankets, candles, extra firewood (if you have a fireplace or wood stove), and first-aid supplies will help prevent you from having to brave icy conditions in the event of an emergency. It’s also good practice to pack extra winter clothes so you can layer up if your home begins to cool down after the power goes out.

In the event of an emergency, you’ll also want to have a contact sheet prepared with emergency services as well as family members you can contact for help. Having connections to the outside world via phone – or even a battery operated radio – will help you to make sure you have help if or when you need it during a winter storm.

3. Get your Home Ready.

One of the most important things to prepare when it comes to winter weather is your home. Not having your home ready for when a storm hits can prevent you from comfortably waiting out the storm – especially if the power goes out.

First, you’ll want to make sure your windows and doors are sealed so no cold air can get in. It might also be a good idea to add extra insulation to your windows to hold in the heat. If you want to help retain as much heat as possible, you can turn your heat up more than normal in the hours before the storm is supposed to blow through so you have more warmth held in if the power goes out.

4. Hunker Down and Stay Safe.

The most important tip to remember after a blizzard rolls through your town is to stay home. Traveling with bad road conditions during a winter storm can be incredibly dangerous. If you have the ability to work from home, or you can take time off, it’s best to shelter in place as much as possible.

Not everyone has the luxury to be able to wait it out at home, though, so if you absolutely must get out – take all precautions to make sure you arrive at your destinations safely. Remember to have longer stop times for your vehicle, drive slower, and try to stay away from other cars on the road so you lower your chances of getting into an accident.

Remember, if you’ve properly prepared all year and after you hear the forecast, you’ll have everything you need to stay safe and warm – even if your power goes out. Once you feel ready, all you need to worry about is making sure you have games and activities to keep you entertained until the storm has passed.

4 Steps to Prep for Winter Storms