How often do people find themselves stranded during the winter season, or without resources taken for granted at all other times of the year? The problems which arise can be minimized in many ways by preparation for the winter period, taking into account the weather conditions prevalent within the geographical area concerned. While the home may be cut off for days, preparation in advance makes those moments of quietude less stressful for the whole family. Every year on the news, people see others stranded in situations they haven't prepared for, and preparation can be the key to successfully weathering the storm.

*Safety.

*Food.

*Shelter.

*Warmth.

*Communication.

Safety.

The first consideration of a family who are stranded must be safety. Turn off water supplies. Ensure that electricity is cut off to avoid fires or integral damage to the home. Gas supplies should also be cut to avoid leakage. Water supplies may need to be cut to avoid interior flooding. Ensure that every member of the household knows the routine, so they can work together to ensure the infrastructure of the home is safe.

Food.

Food supplies for a winter period are fairly straightforward. Buying in many stock items can see the family through difficult times. Dried packet foods take up very little storage space though make ideal stocks for times when the home is cut off from supplies. Soups and dried vegetables and pulses allow the family to have adequate vitamins, minerals and warmth to stay alert. Storing of vegetables in advance can also be beneficial. It is wise not to depend upon being able to store frozen foods, since electricity supplies are often cut in times of storm. A camping stove and stock of gas bottles put away safety for emergencies is vital. A hot cup of tea can make a situation look less threatening.

Shelter.

The home needs extra preparation for the winter period. Check roof tiles, blocked guttering and drainage away from the home in advance of threatening weather conditions. If the home is in a snowbound area check that the garden allows adequate drainage so that when the snows melt, the home is not flooded. The home needs to be well insulated. If in a flood zone, ensure that all the family know where to congregate for safety. This may be a second floor area, though by making the family aware, this means that they will be prepared for those times when the home is cut off.

Warmth and comfort.

Ensure that you have alternative heating. Often home central heating

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