Image courtesy NOAA

The Greater Boston Area is expected to get 2-3 feet of snow over the next 24 hours. As with any severe storm, city and public safety officials are encouraging people to stay indoors and off the roads. Boston.com is already reporting an overturned truck on RT-15 and WBZ notes that road conditions are rapidly deteriorating. Just a few pointers on preparing for extreme weather:

• Stock up: Make sure you have bare essentials to last a few days. Buy assorted carbohydrates and fruit that doesn’t need to be refrigerated, so if the power goes out you’ll still have an accessible and healthy food supply.
• Prepare for no power: Grab camping flashlights with self-powered cranks, and make sure that you have batteries for critical devices (and entertainment). As old-fashioned as it sounds, crank powered radios are also a great way to stay on top of new weather and emergency services announcements throughout the duration of the storm.
• Check on your heat source: If you have electric radiators, make sure that you have an alternate heat source in case the power goes out. Also make sure that you have plenty of warm clothing & blankets in the event your heat stops working.
• Prioritize aid: Have a well stocked first aid kit on hand with trauma pads and pain killers. While it may sound extreme, the storm will impede emergency transit and services. Check in on elderly neighbors and make sure that they’re set for the next few days. Offer your assistance if they need anything.
• Games: In case of boredom, break out classic board games and play Scrabble or Monopoly.

Above all, stay safe!