Hold onto your caps, Virginia, the weatherman is calling for more than just a dusting of snow this weekend. With some reports calling for up to 12” of snow, it’s important to prepare yourself now for the pending armageddon.
I highly recommend you consult the parental figure in your life and seek their advice. I am not an expert by any means. I’m also no meteorologist, but having screwed myself over one too many times before battling Virginia weather, here are some tips to stay safe and prepared for what may come.
1: Car safety
Rule of thumb, don’t drive. If you can stay off the road, do that. However, if you know you’ll have to go somewhere or want to just be cautious, lift the windshield wipers on your car so they don’t freeze to the glass. Speaking of, do not, and I mean do not, pour hot water on your windshield. Don’t do it. Oh, and go fill up your gas tank before the weather hits.
If you do happen to be driving in the snow and start sliding on ice, stay calm and take a deep breath. Believe it or not, screaming and dropping the wheel does less magic than you’d think. Shocker, I know. Look where you want to go (not what you don’t want to hit) and brake carefully. If you’re going up a hill, it’s important you maintain gas to help prevent traction loss.
2: Stock up
Do not go crazy and raid Harris Teeter of their entire toilet paper supply. Seriously, but if you’re able to, go stock up. Maybe go get some extra snacks and packs of ramen just in case. Grab a gallon of water if you want to double-down doomsday style. Better to be safe than sorry.
3: Shoes, shoes, shoes
If you do plan on going out this weekend, make sure you put on some warm shoes with a grip on the bottom. If you don’t have winter boots, try to wear something with tread and slip-proof, like a sneaker. Ice skating is all fun and games until you’re slipping and sliding down the sidewalk. All in all, dress accordingly for the cold. Layer up and embrace the suck.
I am no expert by any means, so take what I write with a grain of salt. Who knows, maybe I just jinxed us and there will be no snow. Stay safe, Captains!
