When this time of year comes around, it’s always a good idea to create a simple checklist, like the one below, to ensure you are well prepared for a winter storm, and all your necessary equipment won’t let you down when you need it most.

Winter Survival Kit (Car and Home):

• Flares
• A blanket
• Wool socks, insulated boots, mittens and a tuque
• An LED flashlight
• Cell phone charger
• Jumper cables
• 10-metre length of rope
• Shovel(s)
• Energy bars
• A small tarp
• Duct tape
• A long bungee cord

First Aid Kit (Car and Home):

• Emergency contact numbers
• Sterile gauze pads
• Adhesive tape
• Bandages
• Scissors
• Tweezers
• Flashlight (with extra batteries)
• Antiseptic wipes
• Pencil and pad
• Emergency blanket
• Respiratory protection (pocket masks)
• Small currency (coins)

Water:

• Ensure you have at least four litres of water per person per day for three days. That means if you have a family of four, you should have 48 litres in your emergency supply.

Salt / Sand:

• Prior to a storm hitting, check that you have enough salt or sand to ensure safe access and egress to and from your home.

Snow Blower:

• Change the oil
• Install a new spark plug
• Inspect the belts for wear and replace as required
• Check the tires for punctures or imperfections and ensure the pressure is correct
• Fill the tank with fresh gasoline

Generator:

Never run a generator inside a structure and ensure it isn't placed near any intakes.

• Have your generator serviced twice yearly (and formally record when servicing is completed)
• Inspect for corrosion of elements, loose or frayed wires, stuck buttons and loose connections
• Inspect the surrounding area for debris (ensure nothing is blocking the machine)
• Change the lubricant oil and filters
• Clean the spark plugs
• Check the bolts
• Refresh the fuel supply

Cell Phones:

• Prior to the start of a storm, ensure your cell phone remains plugged in so it will be fully charged in the event your house loses power.

Check out this resource to create your own emergency kit checklist.