At home or on the road, be prepared when storms strike

Some of the dangers associated with winter storms include the loss of heat, power and telephone service, as well as a shortage of food and supplies. Every home should have a winter storm survival kit. According to the National Weather Service, here are some of the items to include:

Flashlights and extra batteries.

Battery-powered weather radio and a commercial radio.

Non-perishable food that requires no cooking and bottled water.

First-aid supplies and extra medicine.

Fire extinguisher, smoke detector and carbon-monoxide detector.

Extra baby items, including food, if there is an infant or young child in the home.

If you have an emergency heating source, such as a fireplace or space heater, make sure there is sufficient ventilation.

If you have pets, make sure they have sufficient food, water and shelter.

Survival Kits for Vehicles

Since most people are on the highways during winter, every motorist should have a survival kit. Begin by making sure each vehicle has a windshield scraper, booster cables and road map.

Also consider the following items for vehicle survival kits:

Blankets and sleeping bags

Flashlight and spare batteries

First-aid kit

Knife, tool kit and a tow rope

Non-perishable food

Extra clothing

Toilet tissue, paper towels or sanitary wipes

Waterproof matches

Sand for helping to regain tire traction and a shovel

A container for storing water