How to Stay Safe in an Ice Storm
Freezing rain can wreak havoc for days. Make sure your loved ones are protected.
Up next in Hurricanes & Storms (12 videos)
Stay safe during severe storms and hurricanes with videos on assembling emergency kits, building storm shelters, and more.
You Will Need
- A home survival kit
- A car survival kit
- A full gas tank
- Defensive driving skills
- Fire safety
Steps
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Step 1
Have a survival kit
Prepare a storm survival kit that includes flashlights and extra batteries; a battery-powered radio; water; foods that require no cooking or refrigeration; a manual can opener; first aid supplies; and a battery-operated cell phone charger.
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Step 2
Prepare a car kit
Prepare a survival kit for your car that includes all the items in step one, plus flares, blankets, warm clothes, sand or kitty litter, a small can and waterproof matches for melting snow, and a shovel.
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If your car becomes stuck, tie a bright cloth to your antenna so rescuers can see you.
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Step 3
Fill up your car
Keep your gas tank filled to avoid ice buildup in the tank and fuel lines.
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Step 4
Avoid driving
Don’t drive. If you must get in the car, go slowly and keep your distance from others. SUVs with four-wheel drive might drive well on ice, but they cannot stop better than any other car.
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Make sure someone knows your travel timetable and the route you’re planning to take.
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Step 5
Stay with your car
If you get stranded in your car, stay put. Run the motor 10 minutes every hour; if it’s dark out, turn on the interior lights as the engine runs so rescuers can spot you. Prevent carbon monoxide poisoning by keeping the windows open a crack and making sure the exhaust pipe is clear. Move your limbs occasionally to keep your blood circulating.
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Step 6
Walk with caution
If you are outside, walk slowly, taking short steps. Stay away from utility poles and downed power lines, and avoid walking under trees; ice can cause branches to break off.
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Be especially cautious around cars; ice may prevent them from coming to a stop at intersections.
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Step 7
Watch for fire hazards
Beware of common fire hazards: Don’t use an outdoor grill inside, and if you’re using space heaters, keep them away from anything flammable. Never leave a candle unattended. Place fireplace ashes in outdoor covered metal cans.
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Step 8
Check on the neighbors
Check on your neighbors, especially elderly ones. They are the most vulnerable during power outages.
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Seventy percent of winter storm-related deaths involve a car.
