Massachusetts is known for its heavy snowstorms. Often these can cause your car to be trapped in its driveway for days. Don't wait until AFTER a storm hits to look for supplies! Make sure you have these things on hand before the snow begins to fall.

* A few gallons of NEW water. Get fresh plastic gallon jugs every year - don't rely on the water you got 10 years ago. Keep it in the closet or somewhere safe. Drinkable water is key.

* A BATTERY operated radio - or better yet, one that takes a hand crank too!! Do NOT rely on TV in an emergency!! I've heard people say they'll use their TV for emergency / homeland security issues. The power is the first thing that goes in an emergency! Your real lifeline is a radio, with batteries, backup batteries and a hand crank. That way even if all the batteries die you can hear what's going on.

* A few battery operated flashlights - and again I highly recommend the LED ones that also let you "shake them to life". If nothing else this will help you get to find batteries! Batteries can always die - your hand-shaking will always work. Don't rely on candles. Many people accidentally set their homes on fire especially at night. Have flashlights and lanterns - LED last the longest - in your closet.

* Canned food that doesn't need heating. Tunafish, almonds, whatever it is that you will eat. Make sure you have a can opener too.

* Fireplace or generator. Have some way of keeping warm that is SAFE. Again, many people die from unsafe heating systems that tip over and start fires. If you don't have any way of heating your home, have a backup plan in place.

* Plan for your pets. Make sure they can be moved into your "warm room" or can come with you to your emergency shelter plan.

* WATER PIPES!! Water EXPANDS when it freezes. If you leave water in your pipes, the water will expand and burst your pipes which can cost thousands to repair. If your home is getting to this point, drain all water out of your system. Shut off the main incoming water line to the house and drain your water pump and heater. Flush all toilets, open every faucet including outside garden hose connectors.

Siphon / bail out any remaining water you see. If there's just a little water left in the "hook" under the sink for example, that's fine - the water can expand up in either direction. It's solid areas of water you are trying to remove.

Eaton Hand Crank Radio
Freeplay Hand Crank Radio
OXO Snow Brush


Winter Photos from Sutton Massachusetts

Sutton Massachusetts Photo Collection