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Winter Emergencies? Here’s How to Stay Safe

Winter weather can bring a unique set of challenges, especially for older adults. Cold temperatures, snow, and ice can increase the risk of falls, hypothermia, and other serious issues. Preparing ahead of time can make a huge difference in staying safe during winter storms or emergencies. Here are seven essential steps to prepare for winter weather and ensure your safety. 

1. Check Heating and Insulation: Make sure your heating system is working properly before winter hits. If using space heaters, ensure they are safe and meet fire safety standards. Don’t forget to have extra blankets on hand for added warmth. 
2. Stock Up on Essentials: Ensure you have enough medications, food, and water to last for at least 72 hours in case of a power outage or being snowed in. Keep a list of your medications and make sure your prescriptions are filled before the storm hits. Stock up on non-perishable foods, bottled water, batteries, and personal hygiene items to avoid unnecessary trips to the store during bad weather. 
3. Prepare an Emergency Kit: A well-stocked emergency kit is essential. Items to include: flashlight, first aid kit, fully charged battery pack to keep phone charged, nonperishable food, water, manual can opener, and warm clothing. Consider a battery-powered radio to stay informed of weather updates. 
4. Clear Walkways and Ensure Home Safety: Ice and snow can create hazards around the house. Be sure to keep walkways clear of snow and ice. If possible, use salt or sand to prevent slipping. Check your home’s entry points for drafts or leaks and seal them off to prevent heat loss. 
5. Work with a Life Care Manager: A Life Care Manager from our team can be essential to your winter preparedness plan. We help older adults coordinate services, ensure essential supplies are stocked, and maintain connections with loved ones or caregivers during emergencies. If conditions worsen, we can assist with organizing transportation or medical services as needed. 
6. Create a Communication Plan: Stay connected with family, friends, or your Life Care Manager, especially during emergencies. Make sure someone knows your plans, where you’ll be, and how they can reach you. Have a contact list ready that includes numbers for local emergency shelters, emergency contacts, family and friends, and caregivers. 
7. Identify Helpful Resources: Staying informed and prepared is key to navigating the challenges of winter weather. Fortunately, there are many resources available both locally in Boston and nationwide to help you stay safe during the colder months and when emergencies happen throughout the year. Here are a few trusted resources to help you plan and ensure you’re ready for any emergency: 

• • City of Boston Emergency Management 
  • Ready Boston 
  • FEMA Winter Ready Toolkit 
  • FEMA Disaster Preparedness Guide for Older Adults 

Winter weather can be unpredictable, but being prepared can help prevent emergencies. Whether it’s ensuring your home stays warm or keeping connected with loved ones, taking these steps will help ensure that you remain safe and comfortable during colder months.