By Lauren HollandWinter weather brings snow, ice, and freezing temperatures that can disrupt daily life. To stay safe and comfortable, you need to stock your home and car with the right supplies before the first storm hits. This checklist covers the essentials: ice melt and shovels for clearing walkways, a well-equipped car emergency kit, carbon monoxide alarms for home safety, draft stoppers to reduce heat loss, humidifier care to fight dry air, and basic preparations for power outages. Use this guide to ensure you have everything on hand for a smooth winter season.
Snow and Ice: Clearing Your Property Safely
When snow and ice accumulate, you need tools to keep driveways, sidewalks, and steps clear and safe. Start with a sturdy snow shovel. Look for one with a comfortable grip and a broad blade that can handle wet, heavy snow. For ice, you will need an ice scraper for your car’s windshield and windows. A long-handled scraper with a brush on the other end is useful for clearing snow off the roof and hood. Compare ice scrapers with brushes by handle length and blade material. Remember to check manufacturer instructions for any scrapers with built-in squeegees or special coatings.
Ice melt is another critical purchase. Choose a product labeled for use on concrete or asphalt to avoid damaging surfaces. Keep in mind that some ice melts can be harmful to pets and plants, so look for pet-safe formulas if you have animals at home. Apply ice melt before a storm to prevent ice from bonding, or after shoveling to address remaining patches. Store ice melt in a sealed container in a dry place to keep it effective. For your car, keep a small bag of sand or cat litter in the trunk; it provides traction if you get stuck on ice.
Car Emergency Kit: What You Need Inside Your Vehicle
Winter driving can be unpredictable. A well-stocked car emergency kit can make a critical difference if you break down or get stranded. Start with a reliable flashlight with extra batteries. A headlamp is also handy for hands-free tasks. Include a sturdy ice scraper specifically designed for car windows — the compact type with a long handle is ideal. For warmth, pack one or two wool blankets or a sleeping bag rated for cold temperatures. Jumper cables are essential; make sure they are long enough (a common rule of thumb is at least 12 feet) to reach between vehicles. Add a first-aid kit, a multi-tool or basic wrench set, and a bag of kitty litter or sand for traction. Don’t forget a small shovel (a collapsible one works well) and a windshield scraper with a brush. Keep a reflective vest and warning triangles or flares to make your car visible to other drivers. For a more complete list, refer to the winter essentials checklist which includes additional items like a portable phone charger and non-perishable snacks.
Check your car’s antifreeze level and windshield wiper fluid rated for low temperatures. Replace old wiper blades with winter-specific ones that resist ice buildup. Ensure your spare tire and jack are in working order. Finally, consider adding a small bag with hand warmers, a whistle, and a roll of duct tape for emergency repairs.
Home Safety: Carbon Monoxide and Smoke Alarms
Winter increases the risk of carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning because homes are sealed tight and heating systems run more often. Every household should have carbon monoxide alarms installed on each level of the home, especially near sleeping areas. Follow manufacturer instructions for placement; mounting height and distance from fuel-burning appliances vary by model. Test alarms monthly and replace batteries at least once a year. For new purchases, consider alarms with a sealed lithium battery that lasts a decade. Look for carbon monoxide alarms that list UL 2034 certification on the package. Also check that smoke alarms are functional; replace any unit that is more than 10 years old. If you use a fireplace, wood stove, or space heater, have the chimney and flue inspected annually and ensure proper ventilation. For more detailed guidance on winter home safety, visit Ready.gov’s winter weather page.
Drafts and Heat Loss: Sealing Your Home
Drafts around windows and doors cause heat loss, making your heating system work harder and driving up energy costs. The simplest fix is a draft stopper — essentially a long fabric tube filled with insulating material that you place at the base of a door. You can buy ready-made ones or make your own with a rolled towel. For windows, use removable rope caulk or weatherstripping tape to seal gaps. An inexpensive window insulation kit with shrink film can add an extra layer. Check attic hatches, mail slots, and pet doors for air leaks. For more thorough sealing, consider a door sweep for the bottom of exterior doors. These products are widely available at hardware stores. Pair them with heavy curtains or thermal drapes to reduce heat loss overnight. If you have pets, you might want to add a draft stopper tailored for pet doors — see the winter and holiday pet supplies page for ideas.
Don’t forget your chimney damper: if it’s not closed tightly, warm air escapes. Seal the flue when the fireplace is not in use. For older windows that still rattle, a temporary solution is to tape clear plastic sheeting over the entire frame.
Dry Air: Humidifier Care and Indoor Comfort
Winter air holds less moisture, and running the furnace dries out indoor air even more. Low humidity can lead to dry skin, static shocks, and respiratory irritation. A humidifier restores moisture to comfortable levels. If you have a portable humidifier, clean it regularly per the manufacturer’s instructions to prevent mold and bacteria buildup. Use distilled or demineralized water to reduce white dust. For whole‑house humidifiers, check the filter at least once a season and replace it if fouled. The ideal indoor humidity level in winter is between 30% and 50%; a hygrometer can help you monitor it. If you have pets, dry air can also affect their skin and respiratory health — a humidifier benefits them too. Clean any humidifier before first use each winter. If you notice condensation on windows, lower the humidity setting to avoid mold.
An alternative to a humidifier is placing shallow bowls of water near heat sources, but these are less effective. For a targeted approach, use a small cool‑mist humidifier in the bedroom at night to ease breathing.
Power Outage Basics: Preparedness Steps
Winter storms often cause power outages. Being prepared means having supplies that keep you safe and comfortable until power returns. Start with a flashlight with fresh batteries — never use candles, as they pose a fire risk. A battery‑powered or hand‑crank radio will keep you informed of weather updates. Stock a supply of bottled water (a common rule of thumb is one gallon per person per day) and non‑perishable food that doesn’t require cooking, like granola bars, canned fruit, and peanut butter. Have a manual can opener available. Keep a fully charged power bank for your phone. If you rely on medical equipment that needs electricity, have a backup battery or plan a location with power. For heating, use only approved indoor space heaters designed for that purpose; never operate charcoal grills, camp stoves, or generators inside your home, as they produce deadly carbon monoxide. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for any portable generator and operate it outside at least 20 feet from windows and doors. Layer clothing and use blankets to stay warm. If you have pets, include them in your plan — pack extra food, a leash, and a carrier. The winter and holiday pet supplies page offers additional tips for pet safety during cold weather.
Check your emergency kit well before a storm hits. Ready.gov recommends having enough supplies to last at least three days. Test your backup batteries and ensure they are fresh. Keep a list of emergency contacts and utility numbers handy.
FAQ
What is the most important item for a winter car emergency kit?
A reliable ice scraper and a warm blanket are essential. Jumper cables and a flashlight are also critical. Build your kit around items that help you stay warm, visible, and able to start your car in cold weather.
How often should I test my carbon monoxide alarm?
Test it monthly by pressing the test button. Replace the batteries at least once a year, and replace the entire alarm according to the manufacturer’s instructions (typically every 7–10 years).
Can I use ice melt on my wooden deck?
Many ice melts can damage wood finishes and corrode metal fasteners. Check the product label for compatibility with wood. Alternatives like sand or non‑chloride products are safer for decks.
How do I prevent my humidifier from growing mold?
Empty and dry the water tank daily. Clean the unit weekly with a mixture of vinegar and water or a manufacturer‑recommended cleanser. Replace filters as directed. Use distilled water to reduce mineral buildup.
Preparing your home and car for winter doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By gathering these supplies and following the steps above, you can face the season with confidence. Check your inventory each year before the first cold snap, and replace any expired or worn items. Stay safe and warm all winter long.
About Lauren Holland
Lauren Holland is part of our editorial team and reviews and edits our holiday shopping calendar guides, checking product details against manufacturer specifications and owner feedback.
