Safety Tips for Surviving a Snowstorm

Winter storms can be deadly in the right conditions. Whether you’re overseas stuck in a blizzard or hunkering down at home, it’s important to know basic survival skills.

Seek shelter immediately when a snowstorm begins to blow in. Wind chill alone can reduce your core body temperature to dangerous levels. Hypothermia and frostbite can occur within minutes if the temperature gets cold enough. Find a house to take shelter in, or if there’s no way indoors, dig a snow cave on the side of a hill to block out the wind.

When hiking or driving in snowy conditions it’s essential you have the tools to make fire on hand. Not only will a small fire provide heat, but it’ll help you dry out your clothes. Wet clothes in a storm are extremely dangerous and will cause hypothermia to set in faster. You should also have plenty of food on hand to last at least 24 hours in case you’re stuck waiting for rescue.

If you find yourself stuck in your car during a heavy snowfall or blizzard, pull safely off the road until it clears. If your car gets stuck, do not leave it. Wait there for help and run the engine for 10 minutes every hour and crack the window a hair for ventilation. You’ll also need to check the exhaust pipe beforehand to make sure it’s clear of snow to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.

Never wander blindly out into a snowstorm to try and seek help.