Will Old Man Winter be in a foul mood this year? According to the latest Farmer’s Almanac, we’re in for a “teeth-chatteringly cold” one with “plenty of snow” for Minnesota and other Midwestern states.
On the other hand, the Old Farmer’s Almanac calls for a much milder experience, one that is warm and wet.
Even if the latter is 100 percent true, that still doesn’t zero out your chances of getting stuck or stranded after a freak snowstorm.
Taking steps to prepare for severe winter weather will protect your property and keep you and your family safe and comfortable in any snow emergency, whether it hits at home or while you’re on the road.
Be alert: This is a time of year to stay aware of the conditions. Because they can change quickly, visit ready.gov and make sure each device in your family is signed up for Wireless Emergency Alerts. In the event of a snowstorm, extreme cold or some other emergency, the system texts an alert right to the device.
Be road ready: Fall is a good time to make sure all the components of your vehicle are in good working order, including lights, tires and fuel lines. It’s also a good idea to put together a winter emergency kit that stays in your car.
Make a list and check it twice: When bad weather’s in the forecast, you’ll want to be ready to hole up at home.
- Extra batteries (including a power bank for mobile devices)
- Flashlights and battery-operated lanterns
- Three days’ worth of fresh water (one gallon per person per day)
- Extra medication
- Three days’ worth of non-perishable food and the means to cook it (make sure your propane grill or camp stove are within easy reach)
- Blankets, sleeping bags, sweaters, hats and gloves
- Games, books and decks of cards
- Pet food and other needed supplies
Money: Cash at the ready is a smart part of every winter readiness routine. Keep the checkbook handy, and make sure you set aside $50 or so in small bills for an emergency.
Savings: When bad weather hits, accidents happen, from falling tree branches to car collisions. Yes, you have insurance, but do you know your deductible? Find out how much cash you’d need to come up with to fix your car or house before insurance pays the rest. If you don’t have the full amount in savings, now’s the time to hatch a plan.
Blizzards, ice storms and sub-zero temperatures are all realities of Minnesota winters. That's why it's always smart to be ready. It's good to know Minnwest Bank has your back, because we have the mobile banking tools that let you automate your savings, as well as access and manage your accounts anytime, anywhere. Talk to one of our personal bankerstoday.
