As winter tightens its grip on Harrisburg and the surrounding Central Pennsylvania area, we’re bracing for a significant storm that’s expected to dump about a foot of snow, potentially. At LWG Insurance, we’re more than just your local agency—we’re your neighbors, committed to helping you navigate these challenges safely. While snow can create a winter wonderland, it also brings risks like slippery roads, power outages, and potential property damage. In this article, we’ll share practical safety tips for preparing in advance, driving (or better yet, avoiding it), and protecting your home inside and out. We’ll also tie in some insurance insights to help minimize claims and keep your coverage working for you.
Stock Up and Prepare in Advance
The key to weathering a storm is preparation. Start by assembling an emergency kit for your home and vehicle well before the flakes fly. According to the National Weather Service, stocking up on essentials can make all the difference when storms hit.
Here’s what to prioritize:
- Non-perishable food and water: Aim for at least a three-day supply, including one gallon of water per person per day. Include items like canned goods, energy bars, and pet food if applicable.
- Medications and health supplies: Refill prescriptions early and have a first-aid kit on hand.
- Power and light sources: Flashlights, extra batteries, portable chargers for phones, and a battery-powered radio for updates.
- Warmth essentials: Blankets, extra clothing layers, and safe alternative heating options (avoid using ovens or stoves for heat to prevent carbon monoxide risks).
- Home maintenance items: Rock salt or ice melt for walkways, sand for traction, and a sturdy snow shovel.
For Central PA specifically, the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission recommends charging all devices ahead of time and having bottled water and non-perishable food ready in case of outages Also, check your heating system now—ensure furnaces are serviced and vents are clear to avoid breakdowns during the storm.
From an insurance perspective, documenting your property before the storm (photos of your home’s interior and exterior) can streamline any potential claims if damage occurs. Review your policy to confirm coverage for storm-related issues like fallen trees or roof collapses.
Driving Safety: Stay Off the Roads If Possible
With heavy snow forecast, the safest choice is to hunker down at home. Pennsylvania’s Ready PA initiative emphasizes avoiding travel during winter weather whenever you can. Check 511PA.com for real-time road conditions, and if travel is unavoidable, reschedule non-essential trips. If you must drive:
- Vehicle prep: Clear all snow and ice from windows, lights, and the roof before starting. Top off antifreeze, check tire tread (Pennsylvania requires good traction in winter), and keep your gas tank at least half full to prevent fuel line freezing.
- On the road: Drive slowly, increase your following distance to 5-6 seconds and avoid sudden braking or acceleration. Use low beams in snow for better visibility and remember to drive defensively!
- Emergency kit for your car: Include jumper cables, a flashlight, warm blankets, snacks, water, a shovel, and sand or kitty litter for traction if you get stuck. Always be prepared!
Remember, black ice is a common hazard in Harrisburg’s variable temperatures—slow down on bridges and overpasses. If you’re in an accident, your auto insurance through LWG can help cover repairs and medical costs, but prevention is key. Consider adding roadside assistance to your policy for extra peace of mind during storms.
Home Safety: Inside and Outside Tips
Once the storm hits, focus on staying safe indoors while addressing outdoor hazards carefully.
Inside Your Home
- Stay warm and safe: Dress in layers, close off unused rooms to conserve heat, and use blankets. Install or check carbon monoxide detectors, as the Red Cross warns that improper heating can lead to poisoning. redcross.org Never use generators, grills, or camp stoves indoors.
- Prevent pipe bursts: Let faucets drip during extreme cold to keep water moving, and open cabinet doors under sinks to allow warm air circulation. Insulate pipes in unheated areas.
- Power outage prep: If lights go out, unplug appliances to avoid surges when power returns. Use flashlights instead of candles to reduce fire risks.
In Central PA, where winds can accompany snow, Ready PA suggests keeping supplies like tools and insulation ready to seal drafts. Insurance tip: Homeowners policies often cover burst pipes if you’ve taken reasonable prevention steps—document your efforts to support any claims.
Outside Your Home
- Shoveling smart: Clear snow in small amounts, push rather than lift, and take frequent breaks to avoid overexertion, which can lead to heart strain. The Red Cross recommends working with a partner and watching for falling ice or branches.
- Roof and gutters: Remove heavy snow buildup from roofs to prevent collapses, and clear gutters to avoid ice dams. In Harrisburg, where we see wet, heavy snow, this is crucial—local experts like Haller Enterprises advise checking for standing snow early.
- Yard hazards: Trim branches near power lines before the storm, and stay clear of downed wires—report them to your utility immediately.
Outdoor work increases slip-and-fall risks, so wear sturdy boots with good traction. If injuries occur, your health or liability insurance might apply; chat with us at LWG Insurance to ensure you’re covered.
Final Thoughts: Stay Safe and Connected
A foot of snow in Central PA can disrupt daily life, but with these tips, you’ll be better equipped to handle it. Prioritize safety, prepare early, and remember that LWG Insurance is here to protect what matters most. If you have questions about your coverage or need advice on winter-proofing your policy, reach out to us at