Winter Survival Guide: Tips to Winterize Your Car and Home

We haven't had much snow yet this winter, but it's never too early to prepare for snow, cold temperatures and icy roads.

Despite the unseasonable warmth, the temperature has dipped into low temperatures in recent weeks, prompting some residents in the area to stop into , 6240 N Port Washington Rd., Glendale, for window kits and sealants to prevent a draft from coming in through their doors and windows.

"As soon as it gets down to 30 degrees you will notice if you have a draft coming through your window or door," said Ralph Ignatowski of Village Ace Hardware.

Ignatowski also suggests everyone prepare for the more extreme conditions by stocking up on these supplies:

• Shovels and/or snowblowers
• Salt to melt ice on walkways. Visit the Environmental Protection Agency’s website for a complete list of recommended products.
• Sand to improve traction
• Anti-freeze for your car
• Ice scraper
• Lock de-icer (Just make sure you don't lock it in the car.)
• Carbon monoxide tester
• Blanket, shovel and flashlight for your car
• Schedule a tune-up for your furnace

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency also suggests creating an emergency supply kit for your home and your car to help prepare for power outages and icy or impassable roads.

An emergency supply kit should include a three-day supply of food and water for each person, a battery-powered or hand-crank radio, extra flashlights and batteries, and any items to meet the unique needs of your family.

In preparation for winter weather, FEMA recommends you check and update your family’s emergency supply kit to include:

• Sufficient heating fuel. You may become isolated in your home and regular fuel sources may be cut off. If you have a fireplace or wood-burning stove, be sure to store a good supply of dry, seasoned wood. If your heat goes out, never use a generator or other gasoline, propane, natural gas or charcoal-burning devices inside a home.
• Adequate clothing and blankets to keep you warm.

Additionally, these tips will help you and your family get through the winter:

• Make a family communications plan. Your family may not be together when disaster strikes, so it is important to know how you will contact one another, how you will get back together and what you will do in case of an emergency.
• Listen to a NOAA Weather Radio or other local news channels for critical information from the National Weather Service and public safety officials. Be alert to changing weather conditions.
• Minimize travel. If travel is necessary, keep an emergency supply kit in your vehicle.
• Bring pets/companion animals inside during winter weather. Move other animals or livestock to sheltered areas.

For more information, visit Ready.gov.