The weather gets a little crazier every year, what with global warming and climate change. But you can prepare yourself for the craze of harsh winters, especially snowstorms, with the following need-to-know tips.

If you have a cellar, basement, pantry, or lots of shelves, then you are already halfway to an awesome food and water Stockpile. How many people are in your household? How much would they eat and drink in a week? Stockpile on canned goods, non-perishable snacks, and cases of bottled water—enough for each person to have their own hold of food if disaster strikes. 

For those of you that have a fireplace, your aim should be a mid-sized stockpile of dry, cool wood. Keep your firewood nearby, like in a close shed or in the attic, so you don’t have to stomp through a blizzard to get your supplies. 

Use egg cartons or clear plastic to insulate your windows against the incoming cold. This is especially useful in cabins and old homes where the power goes out multiple times in bad weather. 

Your roof is the biggest insulation you have in your home. It keeps snow, rain, and other natural elements out of your rooms, while ensuring your warmth and dryness. At the beginning of each new winter cycle, call a roofer to inspect your roof to make sure it and the foundation is in tip-top shape. 

These are super-important elements to have in case of power failure. Stockpile candles in every room of your home, with lighters, and lighter fluid. You should also have a flashlight or two in every room, loaded with batteries. Keep a few cases of batteries on-hand for emergencies. 

In case of a snowstorm, stock up on Thick Blankets, plush socks, and warm, insulated clothes, like classic long johns. You will likely spend 90-percent of your time wrapped up to keep warm, especially if the power fails. You could even peruse Phoenix area furniture stores for insulated, super-comfy furnishings that keep you warm and cozy through cold weather. 

Snowstorms are big deals anywhere, but some people are either more used to them or more prepared for them. Be one of those people and ensure the safety of yourself and your housemates with the aforementioned prep must-haves. When it’s all over, you will be glad that you went to such lengths to prepare for anything.