Stay Calm and Assess Your Situation
Whether you’re at home, in your car, or caught outside, getting caught in a winter storm can be dangerous—but staying calm is the first step to staying safe. Your next move depends on where you are and what resources you have available. Assess your surroundings, check your phone for weather alerts if you have service, and act quickly but carefully.
If You’re at Home or Indoors
Stay inside and avoid unnecessary travel until the storm passes. Conserve heat by closing off unused rooms, sealing drafts, and layering up in warm clothing and blankets. If the power goes out, use flashlights instead of candles and unplug electronics to prevent damage from power surges.
Listen to a battery-powered or hand-crank radio for updates, and limit how often you open exterior doors to keep the cold out. If you have a backup heat source like a fireplace or generator, use it safely and with proper ventilation.
If You’re in a Vehicle
Pull over safely and stay inside your car. Run the engine periodically to stay warm—about 10 minutes every hour—but crack a window slightly to prevent carbon monoxide buildup, and make sure the exhaust pipe is clear of snow.
Turn on your hazard lights, stay bundled up, and use blankets or extra clothing to retain body heat. Avoid draining your battery by limiting the use of lights and radio. If you have signal, let someone know your location and situation.
Tie a piece of brightly colored cloth to your antenna or window as a signal for help, and stay put unless you can clearly see help or shelter within a short, safe walking distance.
If You’re Caught Outside
Seek immediate shelter from the wind and cold. If you can’t find a building, take cover behind a natural windbreak like a hill or rock outcropping. Use any available materials—branches, backpacks, tarps—to insulate yourself from the ground and wind.
Keep moving your arms, legs, fingers, and toes to maintain circulation, but avoid sweating, which can make you colder. Stay dry and keep your head, hands, and feet covered. If night is approaching or visibility is low, staying in place may be safer than trying to walk in poor conditions.
Watch for Signs of Hypothermia and Frostbite
Know the warning signs of hypothermia, including shivering, confusion, slurred speech, and exhaustion. Frostbite typically affects fingers, toes, nose, and ears, and causes numbness, discoloration, and hard or waxy-feeling skin.
If you or someone with you shows signs of either, get to shelter, remove wet clothing, and warm up gradually using blankets, body heat, or warm (not hot) fluids if available. Seek medical attention as soon as conditions allow.
After the Storm Passes
Once the storm ends, proceed cautiously. Roads and walkways may still be icy or blocked by snow. Check for updates from local authorities and only travel when it’s declared safe. Let others know you’re okay, and assist neighbors or those in need if you’re able.
Winter storms can develop quickly and last for hours or even days. Knowing what to do in the moment can make all the difference—and may save your life.
