Do These Things Now To Get Ready For Winter In New York State

After the summer we've had in Western New York and Southern Ontario, it's hard to believe that fall is here and it's officials autumn. Even though our minds are full of apple picking and pumpkin spice, if there is one thing we know about Western New York is that the weather can be unpredictable. I know you don't want to think about it, but winter is coming, and if you haven't already, it's time to starting getting your automobile ready for for the cold and snow.

Now I know most of us never take the snowbrush out of our car, no matter what the weather is like otuside. but there is way more to winter readiness than having that handy piece of snow fighting equipment in your trunk. While the National Weather Service doesn't have any snow in the forecast anytime soon, we know Buffalo and WNY gets tons of snow, so let's just ensure we're ready. .

I've lived in the northest for several years and if there is one thing I have leared about all otehrs is that you won't need to get ready if you stay ready. Keepingi the necessary emergency supplies in your vehicle will save your life if a bad situtation finds you. If your car breaks down or you get stuck in the snow, you may need to find a way to survive on your own for a while in bad weather, and having these things in your truck will go a long way towards making sure you're safe and sound until help arrives.

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Now we already know that a high quality snowbursh is a must in Buffalo, but what else do we need? I'm talking about stuff like heavy-duty jumper cables, a spare tire and jack that are in good condition, and more. Here are a few other suggestions to make sure you have:

Gloves, Extra Warm Clothes, and a Blanket

If you find yourself snowed in or stuck in a snowstorm, having a good pair of gloves and extra winter clothes will help you stay warm until help can arrive. While you’re at it, you might as well throw in some blankets and non-perishable snacks.

Flashlight and Batteries

You may find yourself in an area that doesn't have a lot of light, or it might even be pitch dark outside. Make sure you have a way to illuminate your way as you go about your travels.

Tool Set or Multitool

One of the things I use the most in my car is my multitool. You never know what you will need to cut, screw, or interact with, and good quality multitool or tool set will go quite far in helping you stay prepared.

An Emergency Shovel and Pickaxe

Have you ever been in a situation where you tried to turn onto a side street that hadn’t been plowed too well, and you got stuck? Having an emergency shovel in your car can really be helpful. You can quickly shovel that extra snow to the side and then be back on your way.

Sand, Rock Salt, and/or Kitty Litter

Just like with the shovel, if you ever find yourself on a really slick road or stuck in some snow, throwing down some rock salt, kitty litter, or sand will help you gain some traction and get back on the move.

Road Flares

If you're stranded on the roadside or need emergency help, road flares are the perfect tool to let people know where you are. You might get an extra plus for using battery-operated ones instead of the regular ones that you have to ignite.

First-Aid Kit

This item can be helpful to you all year. We all have had cuts and scrapes that could use some antiseptic ointment and small bandages. Go ahead and grab a small first-aid kit and throw it in your trunk.

When Does It Typically Start Snowing In Buffalo

According to the National Weather Service, the first flakes of the year typically start falling towards the end of October, with the average date of first snow being on October 24th and the first average measurable snowfall happening on November 8th.

These records go back to 1884, so based on this data, we've got a little time to be ready, but we better act fast.