It’s never a matter of if, but when the next big freeze is coming.
Winter storms can hit out of nowhere and leave people without power, water, and mobility for days at a time.
This isn’t just inconvenient but potentially dangerous.
Take a look at twenty five winter preparedness items that everyone who cares about emergency preparedness should stockpile before the next big freeze.
25 Winter Prep Essentials to Keep You Safe & Warm
1. Thermal Blankets

Thermal blankets, also known as emergency or space blankets, are compact and designed to reflect body heat, keeping you warm in extremely cold conditions.
You would be hard-pressed to find an emergency survival kit that doesn’t include one.
They’re lightweight, easy to pack, and effective for both indoor and outdoor use during a winter emergency.
These blankets are especially useful in situations where your regular heating source fails, as they provide insulation without needing power.
2. Battery-Powered Space Heater

If the power goes out during a big freeze event, a battery-operated or propane-powered space heater can be a lifesaver by providing localized warmth.
These portable heaters are designed to be used safely indoors but should always be used with proper ventilation to prevent carbon monoxide buildup.
They’re ideal for small, enclosed spaces and can make the difference between comfort and cold during an emergency.
3. Insulated Water Bottles

We’ve all probably used an insulated water bottle at some point to keep us warm. They are meant to keep liquids from freezing in low temperatures, which is crucial if you’re facing extreme cold.
Not only will it keep your water drinkable, but it can also be used to store warm liquids, which can help maintain body heat. These bottles are especially useful if you’re on the go or dealing with unreliable heat sources.
I’ve brought these camping with me to toss in a sleeping bag at night (especially hammock camping), and they make a world of difference.
4. Waterproof Gloves

Keeping your hands dry is vital for maintaining warmth, especially if you’re outside in the snow or working with ice.
Your fingers are among the first places to experience frostbite, and waterproof gloves provide both insulation and moisture protection, ensuring that your fingers stay warm and functional.
Look for gloves with thermal lining and reinforced grips for added utility in winter tasks like shoveling or handling cold equipment.
5. Non-Perishable Food Items

Stocking up on non-perishable food items like canned soups, granola bars, and peanut butter ensures you have sustenance when leaving the house or cooking becomes difficult.
We put together a list of no-stress foods to have around for winter storms if you are looking for ideas.
Choose foods that require little to no preparation and offer high nutritional value, as these will keep you energized through long winter storms.
Items with a long shelf life are ideal for emergency situations when restocking may be impossible.
6. Hand and Foot Warmers

Disposable or rechargeable hand and foot warmers are perfect for keeping extremities warm during a power outage or if you need to be outside for extended periods. If you’ve ever shoveled snow, you know.
These small packets generate heat for several hours, making them useful for keeping in your pockets, gloves, or boots.
They are also essential for preventing frostbite and maintaining comfort in severe cold.
7. Flashlights and Batteries

Having several reliable flashlights with extra batteries ensures that you’ll have light during a power outage or when it’s dark outside.
Flashlights are also safer than candles, which pose a fire hazard. Invest in LED flashlights that offer bright, long-lasting light, and keep them easily accessible throughout your home.
I’ve always owned tactical flashlights that use high-intensity lithium ion batteries.
On their lowest power settings (which, depending on the light, still put out quite a lot of lumens), these lights will give you 24+ hours of illumination.
8. Heavy-Duty Snow Shovel

A sturdy, well-made snow shovel is essential for clearing paths, driveways, and walkways to prevent accidents and maintain accessibility.
The psychological aspect of being snowed in and trapped can take its toll.
Choose one with an ergonomic handle to reduce strain and a durable blade that can handle both snow and ice. Keeping your walkways clear is important for both your safety and emergency access.
9. First Aid Kit

Winter emergencies can lead to accidents like slips or falls, so having a well-stocked first aid kit is critical.
Include essentials like bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and any personal medications.
Being prepared for minor injuries is key when professional help may be delayed due to severe weather.
10. Winter Boots

Insulated, waterproof boots are a must to protect your feet from cold and moisture.
Look for boots with a good grip to prevent slips on icy surfaces, as well as insulation to keep your feet warm.
They’re essential for walking through snow, ice, or slush during winter storms.
Whatever you do, don’t go out in a winter freeze wearing rubber boots.
11. Ice Melt or Rock Salt

Having ice melt or rock salt on hand helps to keep walkways and driveways safe from ice buildup.
As a matter of fact, there are a bunch of reasons to stockpile salt for an emergency scenario.
Spreading salt prevents dangerous slipping hazards and ensures that you can safely access your property.
Choose an environmentally safe ice melt if possible, and apply it before or immediately after a storm to maximize effectiveness.
12. Fire Extinguisher

During the winter, the use of heaters, candles, and fireplaces increases the risk of fires, making a fire extinguisher a crucial safety item.
Make sure to have an easily accessible, multi-purpose extinguisher rated for different types of fires (wood, electrical, etc.) and check it regularly to ensure it’s functional and familiarize yourself with its operation.
A fire risk might seem counterintuitive during a big freeze event, but things like burst pipes can start electrical fires.
13. Windproof and Waterproof Jacket

A high-quality winter jacket that’s both windproof and waterproof provides essential protection against harsh winter conditions.
Layers alone won’t protect you from windchill or snow, so choose a jacket with good insulation, a hood, and cuffs that prevent cold air from getting in.
This is a key item for anyone who needs to venture outside during winter weather.
14. Headlamp

I know we already dedicated a heading above to flashlights, but I would put a headlamp in a separate category because of its more specific functionality.
A headlamp allows you to keep your hands free while providing light in low-visibility conditions, which is especially useful during power outages or outdoor activities.
Opt for an LED headlamp with adjustable brightness and a long battery life for maximum utility.
Again, as with the flashlight suggestion, something that uses a rechargeable lithium-ion battery is going to provide long-lasting power.
15. Manual Can Opener

A manual can opener is essential if you’re relying on canned goods during a winter storm.
Electric can openers won’t work if the power is out, so having a durable, easy-to-use manual option ensures you can access your food supply.
You don’t want to be messing around trying to pry open a can of beans with a knife, slip and slash your hand.
16. Insulated Socks

Thick, insulated socks are essential for keeping your feet warm in freezing temperatures, both indoors and outdoors.
Choose materials like wool or thermal fabrics that wick moisture away from your feet while retaining heat. These socks can be worn with or without boots to prevent heat loss through your extremities.
Wool is also great because it retains warmth even when wet.
17. Emergency Radio

A battery-powered or hand-crank emergency radio helps you stay informed about weather conditions and emergency updates during a power outage.
Many models also include a flashlight and USB charging port for your devices.
This tool is crucial to have on hand during a freeze to receive information if other forms of communication go down.
18. Portable Power Bank

Everyone who takes emergency preparedness seriously should own at least one portable power bank. I’ve been saved by mine on more than one occasion, whether in airports or navigating with Google maps.
A fully charged portable power bank ensures that you can keep your phone and other small devices operational during a power outage.
Look for high-capacity power banks that can recharge your phone multiple times or power essential items like flashlights.
Generally speaking, a charger’s mAh (Milliamp Hours) dictates how many different devices (and what size batteries) your charger can power.
19. Water Storage Containers

It’s important to store enough potable water for drinking, cooking, and basic hygiene in case your pipes freeze or water services are interrupted.
Invest in water storage containers with airtight lids to keep your supply safe. The general recommendation is to store at least one gallon of water per person per day.
20. Snow Traction Cleats

Attachable snow cleats for your boots provide added traction on icy or snow-covered walkways, preventing slips and falls.
These are especially important if you have to traverse steep areas or walk long distances on untreated paths.
These cleats are easy to put on and take off, and they greatly improve safety during winter conditions.
21. Multi-Tool

A multi-tool is another one of those things everyone should have at least one of.
With a multi-tool, you get pliers, a knife, screwdrivers, and other tools that can be invaluable for making repairs or handling emergencies around the house or in your vehicle.
Keep one in your emergency kit or vehicle for easy access.
It’s a versatile tool that comes in handy during any winter situation.
22. High-Calorie Snack Bars

Energy-dense snacks like protein bars, nuts, and trail mix can keep you fueled during long winter emergencies.
These non-perishable snacks are easy to store and require no preparation, making them ideal for keeping your energy levels up when you might not have access to hot meals.
23. Candles and Matches

We said earlier to be careful of candles, but, in the absence of electric lighting, candles, and matches can provide both light and some warmth.
Make sure to use them safely by placing them in stable, heat-resistant holders away from flammable materials.
Stockpile a supply of long-lasting candles to use when necessary, but always monitor them while lit to avoid fire hazards.
24. Heavy-Duty Tarps

A heavy-duty tarp can serve multiple purposes during a winter emergency, such as covering outdoor equipment, creating a windbreak, or providing temporary shelter.
Tarps are durable and waterproof, making them useful for protecting property from the elements or for emergency outdoor use.
If your windows break during a freeze, tarps, and tape can be a good stop-gap measure while you wait it out.
25. Window Insulation Kit

Window insulation kits help to keep cold drafts out and maintain warmth inside your home.
These kits typically include plastic sheeting and double-sided tape that you can apply to windows to reduce heat loss.
They’re a cost-effective and easy-to-implement way to improve your home’s energy efficiency and comfort during winter months.
