One thing I've heard for almost two years is, you should never be surprised by Wyoming winter weather, be prepared and you'll be fine.

The funny part about that statement is, go to the store on the day a winter weather advisory is put out and you'll see the folks that are doing just that.

You should always be prepared for any type of weather emergency. Especially during the winter. Having the proper supplies and an emergency kit ready is smart and could save your life.

Staying informed about a weather system is something we've all become used to. The National Weather Service in Wyoming does a nice job keeping up all informed, but they also keep it real. They let you know that they're not 100% sure about a certain storm, until just a couple days before the storm begins. The forecasts are scientific and as the information about a storm changes, the forecast can change.

It's a well known fact that everyone feels that they're qualified to relay weather information, because an app on their phone said so. If you've watched your weather app over the last 3 months, the forecast changes hourly. Paying attention to the weather pro's is a great way to stay in the know. Weather.gov is a good source for weather information and downloading their app is another way to keep track of the weather systems.

With any major winter storm, there's always a chance of being in your house for multiple days and making sure you're ready is important.

  • Make sure you've checked any areas that have been known to allow your pipes to freeze, insulate them and prepare a warming strategy.
    • leaving your water taps open and dripping will lessen the chances of the water freezing.
    • keep your home warm and open the cabinet doors under your sink
  • If you've noticed air coming in your windows, doors or cracks in your home, caulk them or weather strip the doors and windows.
  • Heat your home properly.
    • Using a proper stove or heater with proper ventilation.
    • Give your heater room to work. Shouldn't be too close to curtains, bedding, or furniture
    • use the proper fuel for your designated heater
    • avoid using extension cords to power your space heaters
    • make sure the heaters cord is not a tripping hazard, but do not run it under a rug or carpet
  • Have extra lighting options available incase of a power outage
    • battery operated or lanterns with extra batteries
  • If using a generator use them outdoors.
  • Never use generators, grills (gas or  charcoal), camp stoves in your home, garage, basement or near open windows. The fumes can be deadly
  • Eating is extremely important to heat your body and give you energy

If you have to travel during a winter emergency, make sure you have an emergency car kit with you at all times.

It's also a good idea to have your pantry stocked with food and water.

Here are good ideas to have, that you can have available at all times.

  • Bottled Water
  • Canned Items (soups, stews, pastas, meats)
  • Chips, crackers, cookies in sealed packages
  • Cereal
  • jarred items (jelly, pickled items...etch)
  • Dried Fruits
  • Nuts
  • Jerky
  • Energy Bars
  • Juice that's shelf stable
  • Extra Paper Items

Wyoming Winter Emergency Kit

Emergency Kit

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