Winter storms combine several risks at once for solo agers: falls on ice, heating failures, and being cut off from help by road conditions.
Before the season starts
- Arrange a standing snow removal plan — a neighbor's teenager, a service, or a community program — rather than relying on your own shoveling
- Have your heating system serviced and confirm a backup plan if it fails during a cold snap
- Stock extra blankets and a battery-powered radio
During a storm watch or warning
Confirm your check-in contact knows a storm is approaching and agrees to reach out specifically during it, since your usual routine may be disrupted.
Salt or sand your own entryway and steps proactively before ice forms — reactive de-icing after a fall is too late.