Soon Spring will be among us. As many of us know, it can be the time of year when we see some of the heaviest snowfall. For those without the luxury of a plow, this can mean waiting until the snow melts.

So, what can we do to prepare for a major snowstorm? Let’s consider the possibility of everything, including cold temperatures, power failures, loss of communication services, icy roads, your vehicle, and your home.

Creating a plan that includes protecting your health and well-being should be your first step. In the case of an emergency, it’s always comforting to have someone else around. Perhaps, a “roommate” with first-aid skills in case someone needs aid until emergency services arrive.

Communicate the details of your plan during and after the storm with people outside the affected area. Should they not hear from you two days after the storm, ask them to call in a welfare check.

Stay in contact with neighbors, even if through a made-up morse code system of some sort. For example, using a flashlight through windows, you can flash three times to communicate that you’re okay. If you need help, continuously flash the light or leave the light on. You can set up a communication system between all your neighbors.

Weatherproof your home by insulating water lines along exterior walls, interior walls, attics, and basements. Caulk and weather-strip doors and windows or cover them with plastic from the inside.

If you have a wood stove or fireplace, make sure they’re up to code and make sure you have plenty of accessible wood to last through the storm. If you plan on using a wood stove or fireplace, place a carbon monoxide detector, a smoke detector with fresh batteries, and a fire extinguisher nearby.

Repairing leaks and cutting down branches that may fall on your home are two more things to add to your pre-storm list. Prepare an emergency box should you have to evacuate your home. Include any medication, phone, charger, keys, wallet, passport, first aid kit, flashlight, blanket, maps, water, snacks, a shovel, waterproof matches, and necessary documents.

A second emergency box for your vehicle can include the following items:

Batteries

Hats

Mittens

Windshield scraper

Shovel

Battery-powered radio

Flashlights

Extra batteries for radio and flashlight

Pocket knife

Tow chains or rope

Canned compressed air with sealant for emergency tire repair

Cat litter or sand to help tires get traction

Road salt to melt ice

Booster cables with a fully charged

battery or jumper cables

Reflectors

Bright colored flags

Road maps

To prepare your vehicle, your radiator system, heater, brakes, ignition, and battery should be in good condition. Check the antifreeze level, and replace the windshield-wiper fluid with a wintertime one. Check the tires on your car for adequate tread and air pressure. Keep the gas tank near full to help avoid ice in the tank and fuel lines.

Prepare and protect pets by bringing them indoors or getting creative with providing a heat source to barns and any exterior enclosures. Don’t forget about food and water for our furry and not-so-furry friends.

It may seem a bit overwhelming to prepare for a major storm, but as the saying goes, “Better safe than sorry.”