Blizzard Survival Tips

 
Nothing is more enjoyable than going out on a snowy day. The scenery of freshly-fallen snow can be absolutely romantic. A day of clean air while sledding, skiing or skating could do a body good – but a good time could quickly take a treacherous turn for the worst, should you find yourself caught in the middle of an unexpected blizzard. Taking a few minutes to make sure you are properly prepared for such an event could make the difference between survival or disaster. 

Sometimes, we can’t avoid driving in a snowstorm, but when you’re out on the road in bad weather, you need to be prepared in case you get stuck or have to pull over and wait the storm out.  Carry a blanket in your trunk at all times, as you need to stay warm.  Don’t scrimp on quality and make sure the blanket is heavy enough to provide plenty of warmth.

If you are caught outside in a blizzard without your car, your first goal is to locate shelter. Once you have found shelter, keep your body dry, covering all exposed skin including your face. If you cannot locate shelter, you must get yourself out of the wind. If you can find the necessary supplies, build a lean-to that you can sit under to protect your body from the wind. If all else fails, create a snow cave. If you can, build a fire. A fire will accomplish two things. First, it will create needed heat for your body. Second, a fire will attract attention, hopefully bringing help. If you can find some large rocks, place them around the fire. They will absorb some of the heat from the fire and reflect it towards you. 

You have probably heard that you should eat snow to stay hydrated when caught in a blizzard. This advice is actually harmful. If you eat fresh snow, the cold temperature of the snow will lower your body temperature. Your body will need to expend much needed calories to warm up the snow, robbing you of energy that you will need to survive. Snow is, however, a good source of hydration when caught in a snowstorm. What you must do is melt the snow first. Then you can drink the resulting water. The warmer you can make the melted snow, the better off you will be. 

 
Your car is your friend if you have access to it during a snowstorm. Stay inside and don’t stray far, as you can get lost very easily in a blizzard. Your car will provide you with shelter from the wind and warmth, especially if you run the engine every so often. Starting your car once every hour for ten minutes or so should be sufficient. Make sure you run your body’s engine too! Keep the blood circulating in your arms and legs, and if you’re traveling with other people, huddle up! Take advantage of one another’s body heat.