As the days grow shorter and temperatures drop, it’s time to make sure we’re ready for winter storms and everything that comes with them. Idahoans know how unpredictable winter can be—snow, ice, power outages, and freezing temperatures can make daily life challenging and, sometimes, even dangerous.

A winter storm can last just a few hours or continue for days, bringing extreme cold, freezing rain, and high winds. These storms disrupt daily routines and can leave communities without power, heat, or communication. Idaho’s winters require preparation to protect everyone, especially the most vulnerable among us: older adults, young children, individuals with pre-existing health conditions, and even pets.

The Idaho Office of Emergency Management (IOEM) urges all Idahoans to be ready and prepared for anything during these colder months. With a few simple preparations, you can stay warm, safe, and connected, no matter what winter brings.

What Are the Winter Weather Risks in Your Area?

Preparing for Idaho winters means understanding the specific risks your community may face. Heavy snow, ice, extreme cold, and high winds are common hazards that can impact not only roads and power lines but also personal safety. By recognizing these conditions and knowing how and when they might impact your area, you’ll be better prepared to make safe choices, whether that means staying home, seeking shelter, or evacuating.

Local emergency management offices may be able to help identify winter hazards specific to your area and provide updates on upcoming storms or power outages. It may be helpful to also find out from local emergency managers how citizens can and will be notified in case of a disaster.

Build A Winter Emergency Kit

A critical part of readiness is having an emergency kit stocked with supplies that meet your needs – especially during winter storms when power outages may occur or snowy conditions may keep you from travelling to the store. Include items such as:

• Food and Water: Store enough for each household member for at least three days. Go for non-perishables like canned soups, dried fruit, nuts, and high-energy bars.
• Warmth Essentials: Keep extra blankets, jacket/sweaters, hand warmers, gloves, and hats ready. A safe, portable heater can also be helpful if you lose power.
• Flashlights and Batteries: Power outages are common during winter storms, so be sure you have flashlights and fresh batteries on hand.
• Medical Needs: A first-aid kit and any essential medications are crucial for emergencies.
• Chargers: Backup power banks or hand-crank phone chargers can help keep you connected.

Winterize Home for the Cold Months Ahead

Making your home winter-ready can help it withstand the harsh conditions:

• Insulate Pipes: Wrap pipes in insulation or heat tape to prevent freezing and bursting.
• Seal Gaps and Drafts: Check doors, windows, and attic spaces for drafts. Use weatherstripping or caulk to keep heat inside.
• Trim Trees Near Your Home: Snow and ice can weigh down branches, posing risks to roofs, power lines, and vehicles.
• Plan for Alternative Heating: If you rely on electric heat, consider having a backup source or additional blankets to stay warm during outages.
• Install Safety Devices: Remember to install and test smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors with battery backups to make sure your home remains safe during winter weather.

In addition to these preparations, consider your power supply during outages. Generators can be lifesavers during power outages, but it’s important to use them safely to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning and other hazards:

• Always operate generators outdoors and at least 20 feet away from windows, doors, and attached garages.
• Install carbon monoxide detectors on every level of your home and keep the generator dry and protected from the elements.
• Use heavy-duty extension cords to connect appliances and allow the generator to cool before refueling.

Winter Driving Preparedness

The winter months can bring hazardous challenges to the roads. Snow, ice, and freezing rain create dangerous conditions, but with the right preparations and cautious habits, you can navigate the season safely.

Before winter fully sets in, make sure your car is ready for the cold months ahead:

• Install winter tires or chains for better traction.
• Keep your gas tank at least half full and top off windshield washer fluid with a freeze-resistant formula.
• Stock your car with an emergency kit, including a blanket, warm clothing, a flashlight with extra batteries, a first-aid kit, bottled water, non-perishable snacks, jumper cables, and a windshield scraper.

Driving safely in winter conditions requires extra caution:

• Slow down and increase your following distance to allow for longer stopping times on icy roads.
• Turn off cruise control and be mindful of icy bridges and overpasses.
• If visibility drops during a storm, pull over to a safe location and wait it out.
• Give snowplows plenty of space to work—the safest place is behind them.

Stay Connected and Updated

In winter, staying connected can be lifesaving:

• Sign Up for Alerts: Idaho offers several ways to stay connected, including the Integrated Public Alert & Warning System (IPAWS), Idaho State Alert and Warning System (ISAWS), and Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA).
• Follow Local Services: IOEM also encourages Idahoans to make sure they’re signed up for these services and following sheriff’s offices, and local and state emergency management offices on social media for latest power outages, road closures, and weather updates.
• Know What is Happening on the Roads: Check road conditions and weather forecasts before heading out by visiting 511.idaho.gov.

Be sure to also familiarize yourself with the different winter weather terms:

• Winter Storm Watch: Conditions are favorable for a storm; gather supplies and stay alert.
• Winter Storm Warning: Severe winter conditions are expected soon. Avoid travel and follow local guidance.
• Wind Chill Advisory: Extremely cold conditions are coming. Dress in layers and cover exposed skin to prevent frostbite and hypothermia.

Staying informed isn’t just about receiving alerts; it’s also about staying connected with your community. Engage with your neighbors, share information, and work together to stay prepared.

As we navigate the challenges of winter, being prepared is key to making sure the safety and well-being of ourselves and our communities. Stay warm, stay safe, and stay prepared!

For additional information about staying informed, check out some of these resources:

• Ready: Winter Weather
• American Red Cross: Winter Storm Preparedness
• National Weather Service: Being Prepared for Winter Weather
• IOEM: Creating an Emergency Plan
• IOEM: Building Emergency Kits
• IOEM: Staying Informed
• IOEM: Community Involvement and Volunteering