We’ve been lucky with some warmer weather lately, but winter is still right around the corner!

The Indiana Department of Homeland Security declared this week “Winter Weather Preparedness Week.”

The state says since Michiana has had dangerous snow and ice in the past, they want you to take the necessary steps to prevent life-threatening situations or costly damage.

Here are some tips to better prepare you for winter!

• You should remove any debris or leaves from your gutters.
• Check your homeowner insurance policy to make sure you have full coverage in the event of a storm.
• You should take the time to prepare an emergency preparedness kit. Your kit should include:
• Food and water for three days, including one gallon of water per person, per day
• Battery or hand crank all-hazard (weather) radio
• Flashlight
• Extra batteries
• First aid kit
• Extra clothing, sturdy shoes, blankets and personal hygiene items
• List of emergency phone numbers
• Copies of important documents (photo ID, Social Security card, etc.)
• Cash in small bills (Power outages can limit use of ATMs and credit cards.)
• Special items based on specific needs (baby formula, extra medication, etc.)

In case you’re stuck on the roads, make sure you have an emergency kit in your car as well. It should include:

• Cell phone and a car charger
• At least two blankets or a sleeping bag
• Bottled water and non-perishable food
• Flashlight and extra batteries
• First aid kit and necessary medication
• Jumper cables
• Emergency flares
• Extra clothing, including boots, hats and gloves
• Shovel
• Sand or non-clumping cat litter for tire traction
• Ice scraper and snow brush

Winter Weather Preparedness Week is from November 13th-November 18th.