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How to prepare—and stay safe—in a winter storm

General wellness Emergency care Hydration

How to prepare—and stay safe—in a winter storm

A winter wonderland can be dangerous. Here’s how to keep yourself and your family safe when a blizzard strikes.

Learn Emergency preparednessHow to prepare—and stay safe—in a winter storm

Understand the warnings

Make a plan

Shovel with caution

Snowblower safety

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Ah, snow. It’s so quiet, peaceful and beautiful. Everyone loves snow, unless there’s a nor’easter blowing through, dropping a ton of it. A blizzard can be not just an inconvenience, but also a downright danger. Slippery roads, power outages and overdoing it when digging out can lead to accidents, injuries and even heart attacks. Follow these tips to stay safe before, during and after a storm.

Written by Patrick Sullivan.

Medically reviewed by Ann Wendling, MD, MPH.January, 2024

Updated onAugust, 2026

Written by Patrick Sullivan.

Medically reviewed by Ann Wendling, MD, MPH.January, 2024

Updated onAugust, 2026

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