The IAA One Minute Blog

The Farmer's Almanac is calling for some stormy and snowy weather this winter! Make sure you and your family are prepared for the upcoming winter months.

Know Your Terminology

One of the best ways to be prepared is to know the terminology the meteorologists on the news are always talking about! Here are some winter weather terms that you should know:

• Blizzard warning: Sustained winds or frequent gusts to 35 miles per hour or greater and considerable amounts of falling or blowing snow are expected to prevail for a period of three hours or longer.
• Frost/freeze warning: Below freezing temperatures are expected.
• Winter storm outlook: Winter storm conditions are possible in the next two to five days.
• Winter storm warning: Life-threatening, severe winter conditions have begun or will begin within  24 hours. People in a warning area should take precautions immediately. 
• Winter storm watch: Winter storm conditions are possible within the next 36 to 48 hours. People in a watch area should review their winter storm plans and stay informed about weather conditions.
• Winter weather advisory: Winter weather conditions are expected to cause significant inconveniences and may be hazardous.

When you know and understand the terminology, the better prepared you can be!

Preparing for Wintery Conditions

Winter storms, snow, wind chill, frost, ice, and extreme cold are a coast to coast threat to the United States. With that in mind, it is important to be prepared before, during and after a storm:

1. Before a storm: Primary concerns are loss of heat, power, telephone service, and a shortage of supplies if storm conditions continue for more than one day. Have available:

• Emergency heat source: fireplace, wood stove or space heater.
• Extra food and water, such as dried fruit, nuts, granola bars, and other food requiring no cooking or refrigeration
• Extra prescription medicine
• Fire extinguisher and smoke alarm
• First aid supplies
• Flashlight and extra batteries
• Portable radio to receive emergency information

2. During a storm:

• Close off unused rooms to avoid wasting heat
• Cover windows at night
• Eat and drink: Food provides the body with energy for producing its own heat.  Keep the body replenished with fluids to prevent dehydration.
• Stuff towels or rags in cracks under doors
• Wear layers of loose fitting, lightweight, warm clothing. Remove layers to avoid overheating , perspiration and subsequent chill.

3. After the storm: When the snow and ice melt, it's tempting to relieve cabin fever and hit the road. But melting snow can cause floods, partially cleared roads may be icy or blocked, and creeks and rivers often overflow from the rush of melting snow and ice.

If you know what to do before, during and after a winter event, you can increase your chances of survival.

What IAA has to Say

Insurance Administrator of America wants you to have a fun and safe winter.  One of the best ways to be safe is to be prepared! Just think of IAA as your third party winter weather checklist--making sure are ready for that winter weather. Remember, with IAA one call does it all.

Intertested in reading more blog posts on this topic? Click here and here!