Dos and Don'ts for Staying Safe in Winter Storms

As a winter storm ramps up and is likely to major problems for millions across the East, preparation is key. It has been a while since some of these areas have seen big accumulations, so we wanted to give you a checklist of important things you should remember before, during and after the storm.

Don't

• Bring grills or generators inside. Running them indoors could be a deadly mistake, as both emit carbon monoxide that could poison you in a confined space.
• Sit in your running car unless you've cleared the tailpipe of snow. If carbon monoxide can't escape into the open air, it could escape into your car and kill you.
• Venture out into the snow without letting someone know where you're going. If you get stuck somewhere, there needs to be a friend or family member who can alert authorities if you can't.

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• Use cruise control if you drive in poor weather. It could take longer to slow your car if needed.
• Leave your car if you're caught in a pileup. It's far safer to stay in your car until you're sure the scene is safe and there won't be additional collisions.
• Stand under trees if they're coated in ice. Branches weigh far more when they're coated in ice, and they could kill you if they fall. It's not worth the Instagram photo.

Do

• Begin your preparations as soon as possible. The rush will happen later, and some supplies may run out. If you're in an area where impacts may or may not be felt, go ahead and prepare anyway. At worst, you'll be stocked up and ready for the next big winter storm.
• Leave your phone plugged into the wall, especially if there's a possibility of power outages. That way, if the power goes out, you're guaranteed to have maximum battery life.
• Remember Airplane Mode on your phone. If you're not expecting a call and don't need to be connected to the Internet, if will preserve your phone's battery for much longer in the event of a power outage.

• Abide by all special rules and restrictions put in place by authorities. If you are told to stay off the roads unless there's an emergency, do what they say.
• If you must drive, wear a seat belt and be sure to leave extra distance between your car and the vehicles around you. It takes nine times longer to stop on an icy road than a dry one.
• Load up your car with at least one blanket, and make sure your gas tank is full before you venture out. If you get stranded or even stuck in gridlock, both could be very important.

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