Take These Steps To Be Ready For Winter In Western New York

Not that you could really tell by the weather we've had these last few weeks, but winter is here in the 716, and we have several more months left to deal with what we all know is coming.

Over the last few days, there have been several different weather alerts and notifications from the National Weather Service about the potential for a considerable amount of snow that may fall over the next week or so in Western New York and New York State at large. We could see at least a foot of snow or more on the ground in the 716.

While we all have likely heard these warnings and made sure we were ready, there is always that select few people who choose to pretend like winter doesn't do this to us every year.

Please don't wait for the next lake effect snow band to hit us hard before you decide it's time to make sure you're ready.

If there is one thing I learned in my years of living in Buffalo, you won't need to get ready if you stay ready. Having all the necessary emergency supplies in your car will save your life if you find yourself in a bad situation. This is key because you may need to find a way to survive for a while if you find yourself inside a broken-down car or stuck on the side of the road because of the weather; having these things in your truck will go a long way towards making sure you're safe and sound until help arrives.

READ MORE: Watch Western New York's Thundersnow from Space

Before anything else, in Buffalo, we already know we have to keep a good-quality snowbrush in the car, along with heavy-duty jumper cables. Snow-covered vehicles with dead batteries are almost a given during a Western New York winter. You also always want to ensure that your spare tire and jack are in good condition. Once you make sure you have those things, don't forget to add some of these to your list:

Gloves, Extra Warm Clothes, and a Blanket

If you find yourself snowed in or stuck in a snowstorm, having a good pair of gloves and extra winter clothes will help you stay warm until help can arrive. While you’re at it, you might as well throw in some blankets and non-perishable snacks.

Flashlight and Batteries

You may find yourself in an area that doesn't have a lot of light, or it might even be pitch dark outside. Make sure you have a way to illuminate your way as you go about your travels.

Tool Set or Multitool

One of the things I use the most in my car is my multitool. You never know what you will need to cut, screw, or interact with, and good quality multitool or tool set will go quite far in helping you stay prepared.

An Emergency Shovel and Pickaxe

Have you ever been in a situation where you tried to turn onto a side street that hadn’t been plowed too well, and you got stuck? Having an emergency shovel in your car can really be helpful. You can quickly shovel that extra snow to the side and then be back on your way.

Sand, Rock Salt, and/or Kitty Litter

Just like with the shovel, if you ever find yourself on a really slick road or stuck in some snow, throwing down some rock salt, kitty litter, or sand will help you gain some traction and get back on the move.

Road Flares

If you're stranded on the roadside or need emergency help, road flares are the perfect tool to let people know where you are. You might get an extra plus for using battery-operated ones instead of the regular ones that you have to ignite.

First-Aid Kit

This item can be helpful to you all year. We all have had cuts and scrapes that could use some antiseptic ointment and small bandages. Go ahead and grab a small first-aid kit and throw it in your trunk.

We've got plenty of snow on the ground now, so if you're not ready to deal with it, you better get to work because you're behind the ball.