(BPT) Are you ready if a blizzard hit tomorrow? While smaller snowstorms certainly create a level of frustration for homeowners, large storms require preparation to stay safe and comfortable. Families don’t want to be caught off guard in the event of a large snowstorm. Finding yourself unprepared and without power can be a dangerous predicament.

A loss of power can reduce your access to water, food and light. Follow the tips below and you’ll be ready to weather any snow event!

* Have at least three days’ worth of water.

* Have a supply of flashlights and batteries on hand.

* Have a portable grill or camping stove at the ready to prepare food.

* Purchase nonperishable food.

* Move perishable items into a cooler that can be packed with snow to keep them fresh.

* Pretreat areas outside your home with a bag of ice salt before the storm hits.

Winterizing your home is another step you can take to prepare for winter storms. Checking that your house is ready to withstand a winter storm is crucial. Review the checklist below to ensure that you stay warm and dry.

* Make sure to clean out your gutters and patch any holes in your roof.

* Check for cracks around your door! Use silicone caulk to fill in any gaps larger than a credit card.

* Clean out your chimney and secure a pile of firewood.

Beyond securing the necessities and winterizing your home, there are a number of tools that work even when your power doesn’t! Below are the tools that can make dealing with a large accumulation of snowfall much more pleasant.

* A battery-powered snow thrower to clean off the driveway. Greenworks Tools 60V 20” Snow Thrower will get the job done and eliminate the noise and hassles of dealing with fossil-fuel options.

* A generator that provides portable power can also be of great use in charging cell phones or other essential electronics.

* A cordless, battery-powered snow shovel to remove snow on porches or sidewalks helps clear a path without the back-breaking work. The Greenworks Cordless 12” Snow Shovel is a valuable addition to any winter tool collection as it effortlessly clears a foot of snow on a single pass.

* A cordless, portable heater to help prevent frostbite in the absence of electricity or a fireplace.

If you follow these important steps, you will be prepared for anything Mother Nature throws at you this winter.