With the cold season in full swing, let’s go over some essential tips and tricks to be fully prepared this winter. For starters, if you are located in Wake County, we highly recommend you download ReadyWake Alerts or your local equivalent (alerts and further information can be found through ReadyNC.gov). ReadyWake is the alert system that our agency trusts to stay ahead of any bad weather that’s been predicted. They can text and/or call the number of your choice to keep you informed and if you miss a call, they’ll even leave a concise voicemail so you’re still in the loop.
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You’ll also want to stock up on any food, water or medicine you may need before conditions get too bad to safely go to your local stores. You’ll want to get those emergency supplies early though because the shelves get cleaned out quickly once word of poor weather conditions spread. It’s also highly recommended to be proactive and make a 3-day supply go-kit and a 2-week supply home kit with food, water and medications to have flexibility in case you need to stay somewhere else for warmth. Your 3-day supply go-kit should also have backup batteries and charges. These will come in handy not just for your phone, but also if you or a loved one has a CPAP machine, wheelchair, and so on. Consider also keeping a list of your medications and dosages on a small card to have on your person at all times if you do need to go out.
It’ll also be key to stay warm. First thing, be prepared to bundle up! Make sure you have plenty of hats, mittens, blankets and jackets to keep you and your loved ones warm. If you have a fireplace, it’s always good to make sure you have plenty of firewood available. A snow shovel and ice melting products can also be used to keep your walkways safe. Lastly, it’s best to stay inside if you can during poor weather and road conditions. If you must leave your home due to the cold for shelter elsewhere, know where you will go in advance.
We also highly recommend if you are looking for home care services, look for an agency with a weather preparedness plan. At BrightStar Care of Midtown Raleigh, we have policies and procedures in place to keep both clients and caregivers safe during adverse weather. To learn more about our agency and our weather preparedness procedures, please reach out anytime at 919-321-9435. We hope these tips will help keep you and your loved ones safe and warm during this cold season.