What To Do If You’re Caught in a Winter Storm
Winter Storm Survival Tips
Winter storms can arrive fast, and when they do, conditions can become dangerous in minutes. Whether you’re outdoors, behind the wheel, or sheltering at home, knowing what to do ahead of time can make a life-saving difference.
Preparation is always the best defense. But if you find yourself caught in severe winter weather, here are some important tips to stay safe.
If You’re Outside
If you’re exposed to cold, wind, or snow, your top priorities are shelter, warmth, and hydration.
Find shelter immediately.
Look for any structure or natural cover that blocks wind and keeps you dry. Even a tree line or rock outcropping is better than open exposure. Cover all exposed skin to prevent frostbite.
No shelter nearby? Improvise.
Create a windbreak, lean-to, or snow cave if possible. If conditions allow, build a small fire for warmth and visibility. Surrounding it with rocks can help reflect heat back toward your body.
Stay hydrated, the right way.
Melt snow before drinking it. Eating unmelted snow lowers your body temperature and accelerates hypothermia.
Keep blood circulating.
Move your arms, legs, fingers, and toes periodically to stay warm. Avoid overexertion because heavy labor in cold conditions can strain your heart and cause sweating, which increases heat loss.
If You’re in a Vehicle
Driving during winter storms is risky, even when roads look merely wet.
Slow down and stay alert.
Ice isn’t always visible, and weather-related accidents claim thousands of lives every year.
Prep your vehicle before moving.
Clear all snow and ice from windows, mirrors, lights, and your roof. Flying snow can cause accidents for other drivers.
Tell someone your route.
Always let a trusted contact know where you’re going and how you plan to get there.
Carry essentials.
Never leave home without:
A fully charged phone
A car charger
An emergency kit (water, flashlight, first aid, warm layers)
If visibility drops, pull over.
Find a safe spot, stop driving, and wait for conditions to improve. Turn off your headlights and engage your parking brake so other vehicles don’t mistake your lights for traffic.
If Your Car Gets Stuck
This is where calm matters most.
Stay in your vehicle. Leaving your vehicle in blowing snow can quickly lead to disorientation.
Run the engine for about 10 minutes every hour for warmth.
Crack a window for fresh air while the engine is running.
Keep your exhaust pipe clear of snow to prevent carbon monoxide buildup.
Make yourself visible:
Turn on your dome light at night.
Tie a bright cloth to your antenna or door.
After snowfall stops, raise your front hood to signal for help.
If You’re Inside
Sometimes the safest move is staying put.
Stay indoors whenever possible.
If using fireplaces, space heaters, or wood stoves, ensure proper ventilation and make sure to follow fire safety guidelines. Check outdoor vents to make sure snow isn’t blocking furnace exhausts.
If Your Heat Goes Out
Conserve warmth and protect your core temperature:
Close off unused rooms.
Stuff towels or rags under doors to stop drafts.
Close curtains and blinds to retain heat.
Wear loose, layered clothing.
Eat regularly because food helps fuel your body’s internal heating system.
Drink plenty of water and non-caffeinated beverages. Cold air is extremely dry, and dehydration makes you more vulnerable.
Avoid alcohol because it gives a false sense of warmth while actually increasing heat loss.
Final Thoughts
Winter storms test preparedness, mindset, and resilience. Having the right cold weather gear is important, but knowing how to use it and staying calm under pressure matters even more.
Whether you’re navigating icy roads, weathering power outages, or caught outdoors, these fundamentals can help you stay safe until conditions improve.
From all of us at SERGEANT® — stay prepared, stay aware, and stay safe.