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Ever wonder why people rush to buy milk and bread when we receive a prediction of a snow? Reports of local stores’ stock of milk and bread seem to go hand in hand with weather reports of predictions of snow. We know from personal experience and from talking with others, they think they might run out of these foodstuffs before the snow is gone and roads passable so that’s a reason for the rush on the bread and milk.

But, we think we found another answer. According to AccuWeather.com, we might be able to thank a particular region for at least some of it.

“It appears that New Englanders can take credit for the purchasing of milk and bread prior to the storm,” the site reported. “It was the monumental blizzard in 1978 that trapped many in homes for weeks that gets at least some credit for the current tradition.

”In all seriousness, here are some supplies to consider having on hand should you be stuck inside for a couple of days from the American Red Cross:

– Water: one gallon per person, per day

– Food: non-perishable, easy-to-prepare items

– Flashlight

– Battery-powered or hand-crank radio (NOAA Weather Radio, if possible)

– Extra batteries

– Deluxe family first aid kit

– Medications (7-day supply) and medical items

– Cell phone with chargers

– Family and emergency contact information

– Extra cash

– Emergency blanket

– Medical supplies (hearing aids with extra batteries, glasses, contact lenses, syringes, etc.)

– Baby supplies (bottles, formula, baby food, diapers)

– Games and activities for children

– Pet supplies (collar, leash, ID, food, carrier, bowl)

Several inches of snow were forecast to fall this weekend. The first major winter storm of 2025 was expected to bring snow and freezing rain to places that don’t often deal with wintry weather. 

While some celebrated the flurries Wednesday, the snow was expected to pile up Friday and Saturday. The freezing temperatures and snow had already cancelled school for much of the area this past week.

Winter storms are dangerous. And preparing for them can be intimidating, particularly for communities that aren’t used to it. This weekend’s winter storm is one that might come once a year. But people often aren’t prepared. Things shut down for multiple days if there’s any kind of ice on the road. It becomes more of a hazard because we’re just not built for that kind of stuff.

But further north, for places like New Hampshire, where it snows dozens of inches every year, dealing with squalls and slippery sidewalks is a way of life. 

But to enjoy the snow, you have to stay safe.

For the cold weather we’ve experienced the past several days, it’s all about staying warm, and that begins with layers – hats and mittens. Proper footwear, like boots with good soles, is also important to stay safe when walking outside in snowy and icy conditions.

Wearing several layers of loose-fitting clothing will keep you warmer than wearing one heavy coat. And keeping a scarf over your mouth can help protect your lungs from cold air. 

There’s no doubt you are safest at home during a winter storm.

To prepare for potentially losing power, it’s good to have flashlights and extra batteries on hand. That’s safer than using candles, which can start fires.

NWS people advise stocking up on extra blankets, warm clothes, water and food – especially things that aren’t perishable and don’t require heating up. If you’re getting cans, make sure you have a manual can opener. It’s good to have enough food on hand for about three days.

It’s also worth having a shovel around and sidewalk salt is a good thing to have a bag or two stored in the garage just in case you need it.

If you lose heat at home, you can see if there are any warming centers open in your community, and there is one at Doe River Baptist Church.

If you’re using a generator, make sure you’re only running it outdoors. and away from doors, windows and vents. That helps protect against carbon monoxide poisoning. 

If you have to drive, stay on main roads and try to travel when it’s light out. Remember that roads will be slippery. It will take more time to slow down and stop. So it’s good to leave extra room between you and other vehicles. Pro tip: heat up the car while you’re clearing snow, and the ice will melt before you have to scrape. 

There are ways to enjoy the snow, especially if you’re older. How about a walk in the snow? It’s quiet, you know. The snow deafens the sound of the hustle and bustle.

But, until the sun comes out and the snow melts, stay safe and warm.