Plan for a Winter Storm

Develop a Family Disaster Plan.

Download a copy of our Family Disaster Plan PDF brochure for general family planning information.

Learn about your area’s winter storm risk. Different areas have different risks associated with winter storms. Contact your local Red Cross chapter, emergency management office, or local National Weather Service office about your area’s winter storm risk.

New Bedford residents may contact New Bedford Emergency Management at 508- 991-6386 or the American Red Cross Greater New Bedford Chapter at 508- 996-8286

If you are at risk from winter storms:

Understand the hazards of wind chill, which combines the cooling effect of wind and cold temperatures on exposed skin. As the wind increases, heat is carried away from a person’s body at an accelerated rate, driving down the body temperature.

See our Wind Chill Information page for additional information.

Service snow removal equipment before the winter storm season. Equipment should be available for use if needed. Maintain it in good working order.

Keep your vehicle’s gas tank full for emergency use and to keep the fuel line from freezing.

Assemble a Disaster Supplies Kit. Download a copy of our “Your Family Disaster Supplies Kit”PDF brochure for general information on assembling a kit. Winter Storm-specific supplies should include the following:

A warm coat, gloves or mittens, hat and water-resistant boots for each member of the family.
Extra blankets and warm clothing.
Flashlight, battery-operated radios and an extra supply of batteries.
One-week supply of essential prescription medications.

Get training. Take an American Red Cross first aid course to learn how to treat exposure to the cold, frostbite, and hypothermia.

Discuss with your family what to do if a winter storm WATCH or WARNING is issued. Everyone should know what to do in case all family members are not together. Discussing winter storms ahead of time helps reduce fear and lets everyone know how to respond during a winter storm.

Know what parking restrictions or bans are in effect in your community during a snow emergency to aid in snow removal operations. Know where you may legally park your vehicle during a snow emergency.

New Bedford residents should consult the Guide to Snow Storms for additional information