Winter storms are devastating many parts of the country – including states in the South and Midwest that rarely see snow or icy weather.  Preparation is vital to staying alive during extended periods of heavy snowfall and freezing temperatures.

With this in mind, Larson Electronics shares five tips for surviving winter storms:

1. Make Sure You Have Backup Power

Power outages tend to bring down equipment, systems and electronics with it – leaving you extremely vulnerable during winter storms or emergencies. A simple solution for these unforeseen scenarios is to equip your facility with a backup generator for temporary power. Choose the right size/capacity (as well as preferred fuel type) to match your load in order to get the most out of your generator. 

2. Perform Last-minute Maintenance; Repair Leaks

Blistering winds and heavy snow can cause large, loose branches to fall on your home, which could damage walls, windows or parked vehicles. To reduce these risks, check the trees around your property and remove flimsy, hanging branches. This proactive approach could also help prevent unwanted snow buildup from overhead locations. Additionally, patch up and repair any small leaks around your home to deter water damage that comes with snowfall.  

3. Get Comfortable with Heaters  

Winter storms can last for days or weeks – depending on your location. While waiting for conditions to ease, you need a way to stay warm. Making sure you have a functional heater that can handle your facility should be a priority for surviving extreme, cold weather. Permanent heaters are ideal for dedicated heating in general areas, while portable units are recommended for temporary locations or tasks. Larson Electronics offers both types, as well as powerful heaters for hazardous locations or combustible sites.  

4. Make Communication Top Priority  

Communication is key to staying updated with local road closures, conditions and emergencies in your area. This information is important, as it could affect accessibility to your preferred routes when getting additional supplies or checking on a friend or relative. Keep extra batteries for radios nearby and phones charged to maintain communication during winter storms.

5. Maintain Visibility During Emergencies   

In emergency situations, promoting visibility can increase your chances of survival. Use a compact LED strobe light to notify individuals and rescue teams about your presence or when signaling for help. Larson Electronics carries a Class 1 strobe light with multiple strobing patterns for these emergency situations. The compact units are available in various colors (green, amber, red, white, blue and more).