Restock your weather emergency kit as Michigan faces the colder months

The winters in Michigan can be brutal, and with that said, it’s always better to be prepared for any emergency during the colder months.

According to experts, with winter storms comes the potential for power outages across Metro Detroit.

That said, it’s always a good idea to be prepared for the worst case scenario.

Winter safety tips: How to prepare as dangerous pre-Christmas storm approaches Michigan

Below is a checklist of items you should have on hand according to the Red Cross.

Survival kit checklist:

• Water: one gallon per person, per day (3-day supply for evacuation, 2-week supply for home)
• Food: non-perishable, easy-to-prepare items (3-day supply for evacuation, 2-week supply for home)
• Flashlight
• Battery-powered or hand-crank radio (NOAA Weather Radio, if possible)
• Extra batteries (Similar item available in the Red Cross Store)
• Deluxe family first aid kit
• Medications (7-day supply) and medical items
• Multi-purpose tool
• Sanitation and personal hygiene items
• Copies of personal documents (medication list and pertinent medical information, proof of address, deed/lease to home, passports, birth certificates, insurance policies)
• Cell phone with chargers
• Family and emergency contact information
• Extra cash
• Emergency blanket

If you have children or pets in your household, consider these for your checklist:

• Medical supplies (hearing aids with extra batteries, glasses, contact lenses, syringes, etc)
• Baby supplies
• Games and activities for children
• Pet supplies
• Two-way radios
• Extra set of car keys and house keys
• Manual can opener

Read: How to prepare for power outages during winter storms