The lake-effect over the Great Lakes region has generated a record five-foot snowfall. This blizzard has dumped record snowfall on Buffalo, NY and other cities in Michigan, Ohio, Pennsylvania and New York. These storms have left at least five people dead, some from heart complications from shoveling snow and car accidents in the storm.

Read more about the blizzard that continues to hit Buffalo, NY from Fox News HERE and a later article from the New York Times HERE.

The following are some quick, essential tips for blizzards and snow storms:

• Develop a plan. Meet with your family, put together emergency contacts and a contingency plan to keep everyone safe and knowledgeable should a terrible storm hit. Let everyone know where the supplies are, collaborate on everything you need, and prepare for the worst.
• Stock up on supplies ASAP. Make sure you have at least three days worth of food (ready-to-eat is a good idea), extra water, and other essential supplies. If you can’t leave the house, you can’t go to the stores to get these things. Shovels and snow equipment is also a good idea. You must plan ahead; don’t wait until it is too late.
• Don’t travel anywhere. It’s never a good idea to travel out into a blizzard. If you are caught in a storm on the road, you may want to find a hotel or some form of shelter if you are caught away from home, rather than risk the drive. Listen to the radio and stay informed of weather reports and updates. Stay inside where it is safe and warm.
• Always have enough supplies for your vehicle. Carry plenty of warm clothes and gloves, head wear, blankets, tools, a roadside kit, first aid kit, flashlight, packaged foods and anything else you need to survive if you end up trapped in your car. Don’t keep the engine running, as your exhaust could be blocked.
• Prepare for power outages. Winds, ice and snow tend to bring down power lines. That means no fridge, no oven, no HEAT. Candles, matches or lighters, a flashlight, a battery-operated radio, and tons of blankets will help get you through until the power is restored.

Of course, there is much more to being prepared. These are just some basic ideas to get your mind oriented towards getting prepared. Read the full article on Blizzard Tips from author Katrina Cramer-Diaz HERE. Make sure to search for and read up on even more information and tactics on what to do if you are caught in a snow storm or other severe storm.

The Great Lakes Emergency Preparedness Expo will be held at the Birch Run Expo Center in Birch Run, MI on April 11 and the Bayfront Convention Center in Erie, PA on May 9 in 2015. The exhibitors, vendors and preparedness networks at our shows will work to help you prepare for emergencies like these. Take every precaution, get informed, and stock up on supplies!