Winter Storm Preparedness: How to Prepare for Winter Storms

On January 6, 2025, the Missouri State Highway Patrol reported the tragic death of a 61-year-old snow crew worker. He was in the middle of clearing snow when he was struck by a sliding dump truck. Unfortunately, his case is not an isolated one as every year, over 1,300 people are killed and more than 116,800 are injured in vehicle crashes on snowy or icy pavement.

Winter storms and blizzards can severely impact people’s lives, employment, industrial facilities, and businesses, making winter storm preparedness essential for safety and operational continuity.

From winterizing facilities and implementing emergency response plans to ensuring employee safety and maintaining business operations, I will be sharing safety tips and strategies to effectively prepare for winter storms.

Key Takeaways

Early preparation prevents costly damages and potential business interruptions. Proactive planning is more effective than reactive emergency response.
Employee safety depends on clear protocols and readily available emergency supplies. Well-trained staff can respond appropriately during severe weather events.
Infrastructure protection requires systematic maintenance and regular inspections. Prevention of cold-weather damage saves significant repair costs and downtime.
Strong communication networks and emergency contacts ensure rapid response. Established relationships with support services expedite recovery efforts.

What Is a Winter Storm?

A winter storm is a weather event characterized by various forms of precipitation occurring at or below-freezing temperatures, including snow, sleet, and freezing rain. These storms often bring strong winds and can lead to hazardous conditions such as ice accumulation and reduced visibility. When high winds combine with heavy snowfall, the result is known as a blizzard, which can create life-threatening conditions.

There is no doubt that snow storms can greatly affect businesses as much as individuals, particularly small enterprises. However, only about 60% of businesses in the United States have maintained a strong preparedness plan for extreme weather. This lack of preparedness manifests itself during disasters, with approximately 25% of businesses never reopening after a calamity.

Winter storms often lead to supply chain disruptions, power failures, and transportation challenges, among other operational difficulties. The ripple effects of winter extend across the local economy, impacting retailers and their workforce. For businesses, recognizing these economic consequences is essential to effectively managing challenges and maintaining stability after a weather-related closure.

Common Winter Hazards in Facilities

I remember a facility around our area that wasn't so lucky during a winter storm. The heavy snow caused a part of their roof to collapse, blocking the facility’s main entrance. They had to close down for a week while repairs were made, and even after reopening, they struggled with limited space and lost revenue due to the disruption.

Winter storms can be a nightmare for anyone. Preparing for it can be just as exhausting and time-consuming as waiting for it to pass, and for many businesses, a snowy day is just another working day but with twice the delays and dangers. To help keep you and others in the workplace safe, prepare for these common winter hazards in facilities:

Slips, Trips, and Falls – Icy surfaces and accumulated snow increase the risk of workplace injuries, such as slipping as shown in the image above. Prepare by regularly de-icing walkways, using non-slip mats, ensuring employees wear proper footwear, and maintaining well-lit entrances and exits.
Equipment Malfunctions – Extreme cold can cause machinery to seize, pipes to burst, and heating systems to fail. Prevent this by winterizing equipment, insulating pipes, scheduling regular maintenance, and having backup heating solutions.
Power Outages – Dense snow and ice can damage power lines, leading to blackouts that halt production, communication, and essential business functions. Prepare by installing backup generators, maintaining battery-powered emergency lighting, and having contingency plans for critical operations.
Vehicle and Transportation Risks – Hazardous road conditions from snow and ice increase the likelihood of accidents, delaying deliveries and employee commutes. Reduce risks by providing winter tires for company vehicles, implementing flexible work policies, and keeping emergency kits in vehicles.
Structural Damage to Facilities – Excessive snow loads and ice accumulation can weaken roofs, cause leaks, and compromise building integrity just like what happened to the facility in our neighborhood. Prevent damage by regularly inspecting roofs, clearing excessive snow, reinforcing vulnerable structures, and ensuring proper drainage.
Limited Access to Emergency Services – Severe weather can delay response times for medical, fire, and police services. Keep first-aid supplies on hand, training employees in emergency response, and establishing clear communication plans for crises.
Poor Visibility and Lighting – Blizzards and early nightfall reduce visibility, increasing the risk of accidents indoors and outdoors. Mitigate this by installing bright outdoor lighting, using reflective markers for pathways, and ensuring vehicles and machinery have properly functioning lights.

Impact of Hazards on Business Operations

Workforce, Operational, and Business Continuity Challenges – Severe winter weather can prevent employees from reaching the workplace, causing staff shortages and reduced productivity. Power outages, frozen pipes, and equipment failures may force temporary shutdowns. These disruptions hinder a company’s ability to meet deadlines, maintain service levels, and resume operations quickly—especially without a robust winter preparedness plan.
Supply Chain Interruptions – Snowstorms and icy roads can delay shipments and deliveries, causing shortages of raw materials or essential products. This in turn disrupts production schedules and can negatively impact customer satisfaction.
Financial Strain – Unexpected closures, property damage, and reduced sales place significant pressure on a company’s budget. The cost of repairs, lost revenue, and unplanned expenses can severely diminish profitability.
Customer and Client Relations – Delays in order fulfillment, canceled appointments, and communication breakdowns—often caused by weather-related outages—can damage a company’s reputation. Recovering customer trust and loyalty after such disruptions can be a lengthy process.
Delayed Emergency Response – Icy roads and extreme weather conditions can slow down medical, fire, and repair services, increasing safety risks for employees and prolonging recovery from operational setbacks.

By implementing proactive measures, such as winterizing facilities, establishing emergency response plans, and training employees on safety procedures, businesses can enhance resilience and continuity against severe weather.

High-Risk Industries for Winter Hazards

Jobs or sectors that typically require employees to be at the forefront are the most vulnerable to harsh weather conditions such as winter storms. Here are the industries considered to be high-risk during the winter season and why they are classified as such:

Construction and Infrastructure Projects

Construction sites are particularly vulnerable in winter due to the combination of exposed work areas, heavy machinery operation on slippery surfaces, and the need to work at heights in icy conditions. Workers face increased risks when handling metal materials and equipment in freezing weather while wearing bulky winter PPE that can restrict movement and visibility as shown in the image above.

Manufacturing and Heavy Industries

Manufacturing facilities face unique winter challenges due to large temperature differentials between indoor production areas and outdoor loading zones, creating hazardous ice formation and condensation on equipment surfaces. The constant movement of materials between temperature-controlled indoor spaces and freezing outdoor areas puts workers at risk of slips and equipment malfunctions.

Logistics, Warehousing, and Transportation Sectors

These sectors face heightened winter risks due to the constant need to maintain delivery schedules regardless of weather conditions, combined with the challenge of loading and unloading in outdoor environments exposed to winter elements. The pressure to meet deadlines often requires workers to handle heavy loads on ice-covered loading docks and navigate through poor visibility conditions.

Preparing Before a Winter Storm

Taking proactive steps to prepare for severe weather events like a winter storm is always a better course of action than dealing with the consequences of being unprepared. Here are ways to be prepared before a snowstorm:

Securing a Winter Storm Checklist

Start by assembling essential survival supplies:

Winterize Your Facility

Inspect and Maintain Roofing and Gutters – Check for leaks, missing shingles, and structural weaknesses and clear gutters to prevent ice dams and water damage.
Test Smoke Alarms – Ensure that smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors are working and make sure there are extra batteries.
Prepare Plumbing Systems – Insulate pipes to prevent freezing and bursting. Keep thermostats at a minimum of 55°F, even when unoccupied.
Service HVAC Systems – Schedule maintenance to clean ducts and replace air filters. Also, ensure heating systems function efficiently.
Enhance Insulation and Seal Openings – Keep cold out with insulation and weather strip doors. Install storm windows and seal entry points.

Team Information and Resources

Ensure your team is well-equipped with relevant emergency information, winter weather terms, and training such as:

Basic First Aid and CPR – Train employees in essential life-saving skills to respond quickly to medical emergencies caused by cold exposure, falls, or other accidents during hazardous winter weather.
Clear Evacuation Routes and Protocols – Establish and communicate safe exit strategies in case of structural damage, power failures, or fire hazards during severe weather conditions. Having highly visible workplace signs can assist in emergency response efforts.
Emergency Supply Locations – Ensure employees know where to find first-aid kits, backup power sources, warm clothing to regulate body temperature, and essential supplies in case of an emergency.
Watch for Signs of Frostbite and Hypothermia – Educate your team on recognizing early signs of cold-related illnesses, such as numbness, confusion, and discoloration, to provide timely medical assistance.

Preparing Communication Systems

Before extreme winter weather hits, establish reliable communication channels to keep your team informed during potential blizzards and storms:

Set up and test emergency alert systems by registering all employees with the National Weather Service and local emergency management agencies for weather notifications. Verify that contact information is current and notifications are being received properly.
Maintain a supply of battery-powered radios with extra batteries in easily accessible locations throughout the facility. Test the radios monthly and ensure all team members know how to operate them.
Install and configure backup communication systems such as satellite phones or cloud-based messaging platforms. Train employees on these alternative communication methods and conduct regular drills to ensure everyone knows how to use them effectively when primary systems fail.

Understanding Emergency Alerts

Emergency Alert	Meaning	Action
Winter Storm Watch	Severe winter weather (snow, ice, or sleet) is possible within the next 36-48 hours	Stay informed, review emergency plans, and prepare for potential impacts
Winter Storm Warning	Dangerous winter weather is expected or already occurring within the next 24 hours	Take immediate precautions, avoid unnecessary travel, and prepare for power outages
Winter Weather Advisory	Winter weather is expected but less severe than a storm warning, potentially causing travel difficulties	Exercise caution on roads, dress warmly, and allow extra time for travel
Blizzard Warning	Blizzard conditions with strong winds (35+ mph) and heavy snowfall will cause near-zero visibility for at least three hours	Ensure blizzard preparedness by staying indoors, avoid all travel, and prepare for power outages and limited emergency services
Ice Storm Warning	Heavy ice accumulation may cause downed trees, power outages, and hazardous roads	Avoid travel, secure outdoor items, and prepare for possible extended power loss
Wind Chill Advisory/Warning	Extremely cold temperatures with strong winds will create dangerous wind chills, leading to frostbite or hypothermia in minutes	Dress in warm layers, cover exposed skin, and limit outdoor exposure
Avalanche Warning (For mountainous areas)	Heavy snowfall and unstable conditions increase the risk of avalanches in mountain regions	Avoid backcountry travel and stay updated on local conditions

Who to Call for Preparedness

Suppliers – Contact suppliers to arrange early delivery of essential inventory and establish backup supply chain plans before storms hit.
Insurance Provider – Review your policy coverage with your insurance provider for winter damage and document pre-storm conditions for potential claims.

Keeping Safe During a Winter Storm

Winter storms bring extreme cold, dense snow, and dangerous conditions, making safety a top priority. Whether indoors or on the road, taking proactive measures can help protect lives and prevent accidents. Here’s how to stay safe during a snowstorm:

Indoor Safety

Use Heating Equipment Safely – Operate space heaters and fireplaces with caution. Keep flammable items at least three feet away from heat sources to prevent fires.
Avoid Candle Use – Due to fire risks, opt for battery-powered lights and flashlights instead of candles.
Prevent Carbon Monoxide Poisoning:

Only use generators, grills, and camp stoves outdoors and away from windows.
Never heat your area with a cooking oven or stove.
If you feel sick, dizzy, or weak, move to fresh air immediately, as these can be symptoms of carbon monoxide exposure.

Recognize and Respond to Frostbite and Hypothermia:

Frostbite – Look for numbness, pain, and skin color changes, especially on extremities. If suspected, move to a warm place and gently warm the affected area using warm (not hot) water. Seek emergency medical care promptly.
Hypothermia – Symptoms include intense shivering, confusion, drowsiness, and slurred speech. If these signs are present, seek emergency medical attention immediately. Move the person to a warm room, remove wet clothing, and warm the body gradually.

Driving in Winter Conditions

Check Your Emergency Kit – Ensure your vehicle emergency supplies kit is fully stocked and replenish any missing items.
Secure Your Gas Tank – Make sure that your gas tank is near full to help avoid ice in the tank and fuel lines.
Pack Essential Items for Each Person:

- Blankets or a sleeping bag for warmth.
- Rain gear and extra dry clothing, including mittens, socks, and wool hats.
- Newspapers for insulation against the cold.
- Plastic bags for sanitation purposes.
- Canned fruit, nuts, and high-energy snacks for nourishment.
- Warm broth in a thermos and several bottles of water to stay hydrated.
Charge Your Phone – Bring your cell phone and make sure the battery is fully charged before traveling.
Travel Smart – Plan to travel during daylight and, if possible, have a companion with you.
Share Your Travel Plans – Inform someone about your destination, route, and expected arrival time for safety.
Check Weather Reports – Review forecasts for all areas you will be traveling through before departing.
Stay Alert for Road Hazards – Watch for sleet, freezing rain, freezing drizzle, and dense fog, which can make driving treacherous.

If You Are Stranded

Stay in the Vehicle – Do not leave unless help is visible within 100 yards (91 meters). Waiting in your car is the safest option.
Signal for Help – Hang a brightly colored cloth (preferably red) on the antenna and raise the hood after the snowfall stops.
Run the Engine Safely – Turn it on for 10 minutes each hour to generate heat. Keep the exhaust pipe clear of snow and slightly open a downwind window for ventilation.
Keep a Light On – When the engine is running, leave the overhead light on to improve visibility for rescuers.
Stay Active – Do light exercises like clapping hands and moving arms and legs to maintain circulation.
Take Turns Sleeping – If traveling with others, alternate resting periods to stay alert.
Stay Warm – Huddle together for warmth and use newspapers, maps, and removable floor mats for insulation.
Watch for Frostbite and Hypothermia – Recognize warning signs like numbness, discoloration, confusion, or excessive shivering.
Stay Hydrated – Drink fluids to prevent dehydration, which can make you more vulnerable to cold-related illnesses and heart issues.
Avoid Overexertion – Do not attempt to shovel snow or push the vehicle excessively, as it can lead to heart attacks or worsen medical conditions.

Who to Call for Help

Notify Utility Services – Get in touch with utility services during power interruptions, electrical issues, and frozen/burst pipe emergencies.
Contact Emergency Services (911) – Call emergency services for immediate assistance during life-threatening situations, fires, or medical emergencies, especially during a snowstorm.

Post-Storm Business Recovery

After a snowstorm, it’s essential to prioritize the safety and well-being of each individual in the facility. Here are key steps to help navigate post-storm challenges effectively.

Stay Safe

Exercise Caution Outdoors – Be extremely careful when walking or driving on ice to avoid slips and accidents.
Avoid Power Line Hazards – Stay away from damaged or fallen power lines, as they can be electrically charged and dangerous.
Watch for Falling Hazards – Branches, trees, and ice may be unstable and pose a risk of injury.
Be Mindful When Shoveling Snow – Avoid overexertion, take breaks, and, if possible, work with a partner to reduce strain.
Keep Walkways Safe – Use ice-melting products to prevent slipping hazards around your home or workplace.
Seek a Warmer Location if Needed – If your location becomes too cold, go to a public library, shopping mall, or warming center for safety.

Provide Overall Support

Acknowledge Stress and Anxiety – It’s normal to experience stress, worry, or emotional distress after a severe storm.
Encourage a Healthy Routine – Ask co-workers to eat nutritious foods and get enough sleep to support physical and mental well-being.
Reach Out for Support – If you need someone to talk to, contact the Disaster Distress Helpline at 1-800-985-5990 for free assistance. Once you are physically safe, focus on your team’s emotional and financial recovery. Seeking professional guidance and community resources can help rebuild stability.

Connect with Business Support Resources

Contact the Local Chamber of Commerce – Find your local chamber of commerce assigned to each state for community support, information about emergency loans or grants, updates on road closures, and power restoration timelines.
Connect with the Small Business Administration (SBA) – Seek help from SBA for low-interest loans and free guidance to help repair damage and maintain operations after winter weather disasters.

Here is a summary of what steps to take before, during, and after a winter storm:

Phase	Category	Key Actions
Before the Storm	Preparation	Check weather forecasts, create an emergency plan, and sign up for alerts.
	Safety Measures	Winterize facilities and vehicles, inspect heating systems, enhance insulation, and clear drainage paths.
	Emergency Supplies	Stockpile food, water, batteries, blankets, first-aid kits, and backup power sources.
	Who to Call for Preparedness	Contact suppliers and insurance providers before storms to secure inventory deliveries and verify coverage for winter damage.
During the Storm	Indoor Safety	Keep indoor temperatures stable, use heating equipment safely, and prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.
	Vehicular Safety	Avoid unnecessary travel, keep vehicles winterized, and pack emergency supplies.
	Emergency Response	Stay informed through alerts, recognize frostbite or hypothermia symptoms, and avoid overexertion.
	Who to Call for Help	Contact utility and emergency services for power outages, burst pipes, fires, medical emergencies, and life-threatening situations.
After the Storm	General Safety	Use extreme caution when moving outdoors, avoid downed power lines, and be mindful of falling debris.
	Well-being and Support	Eat well, rest adequately, and seek emotional support. Also, contact emergency services when needed.
	Connect with Business Support	Get in touch with the Local Chamber of Commerce and SBA for community support and monetary assistance.

Safety Expert Tip: Recovery Time Analysis as Post-Winter Storm Improvement Strategy

Beyond immediate recovery efforts, businesses can strengthen their winter storm resilience through systematic analysis of their response effectiveness using a Recovery Time Analysis approach.

Recovery Time Analysis (RTA) is a systematic method of evaluating how quickly different business operations return to normal functioning after a winter storm disruption. This analysis involves documenting the time taken for each critical business function to resume, identifying bottlenecks in the recovery process, and understanding the interdependencies between various operational components.

RTA helps organizations optimize their emergency response procedures, allocate resources more effectively, and develop more realistic recovery timelines for future incidents. By maintaining detailed recovery metrics, businesses can also justify investments in winter preparedness measures by demonstrating their impact on reducing downtime costs.

For example, a construction company I worked with conducted an RTA after a severe winter storm that halted their operations for five days. They tracked recovery times for different operational components: heavy equipment took 12 hours to de-ice and return to service, temporary heating systems for concrete curing required 8 hours to reinstall and stabilize, and the tower crane needed 24 hours for safety inspection and ice removal before operation could resume.

The company discovered that while they had efficient protocols for equipment recovery, their material storage areas lacked proper winter protection, resulting in a 36-hour delay waiting for frozen materials to thaw and become workable. This insight led them to invest in heated material storage containers and adjust their storm preparation protocols to include covering critical materials with insulated tarps before storms hit, reducing their recovery time by 40% during subsequent winter events.

By implementing Recovery Time Analysis in your winter storm preparedness strategy, you can transform weather-related challenges into opportunities for operational improvement, ensuring your facility emerges stronger and more resilient after each winter season.

Winter Storm Preparedness FAQs

How do I prepare for a winter storm outage?

Create an emergency kit with food, water, and medical supplies for at least three days. Keep devices charged and have backup power banks ready. Also, stock warm clothing, blankets, and battery-powered light sources in accessible locations.

What produces the most damage during winter storms?

Heavy snow and ice accumulation can collapse roofs and break tree limbs. Frozen pipes often burst, causing extensive water damage to buildings. Also, extended power outages lead to secondary problems like frozen plumbing and spoiled food.

How long can a winter storm last?

Single storm systems typically last between 24 and 48 hours, meanwhile, major storms with multiple systems can persist for up to a week. It is worth remembering that recovery efforts frequently extend several days beyond the storm's end.

What not to do during a winter storm?

Never travel in whiteout conditions unless absolutely necessary. Avoid physical overexertion while shoveling snow or pushing vehicles and keep generators and heating devices outside to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.

What are the 4 Ps of winter storm preparedness?

Check on vulnerable (1) people who may need assistance during storms. Protect (2) pets by bringing them inside to prevent hypothermia. Let water drip from (3) pipes to prevent freezing and bursting. Lastly, cover or bring (4) plants indoors to prevent frost damage.