what to buy for ice storm

For an ice storm, focus on staying warm, fed, hydrated, and safe at home in case the power and roads go out for several days.

Absolute essentials

• Water : At least 1 gallon per person (and pet) per day for 3–7 days; fill jugs, pitchers, and even the bathtub for flushing toilets and basic washing.

• Non‑perishable food: Canned soups, vegetables, tuna/chicken, peanut butter, crackers, granola/protein bars, oatmeal, cereal, pasta, and snacks you actually like; don’t forget a manual can opener.

• Warmth: Extra blankets or sleeping bags, winter coats, hats, mittens, wool socks, and hand warmers to handle a cold house if the heat goes out.

Power and light

• Flashlights and headlamps with plenty of extra batteries instead of relying on candles (fire risk).

• Portable power banks to keep phones charged; if you have a generator, test it now and store fuel safely outside.

• Battery‑powered or crank radio to get weather updates if cell service or internet drop.

Heating and cooking (safely)

• A safe backup heat source rated for indoor use (like certain kerosene or gas heaters), plus fuel, and at least one battery‑powered carbon monoxide detector. Never run grills, camp stoves, or generators indoors.

• Simple cooking options: camping stove or portable gas stove that’s approved for indoor use, or ready‑to‑eat foods that don’t require cooking if you want to avoid flame entirely.

• Hot water bottles and insulated mugs to help keep body temperature up and morale higher.

Home and car prep

• Ice melt, sand, or salt for steps and driveways, plus a snow shovel or ice scraper.

• Fill the car with gas, pack blankets, snacks, water, jumper cables, and a small first‑aid kit in case you must drive.

• Seal drafts around windows and doors, close off unused rooms, and keep a small “warm room” where everyone can stay together if it gets very cold.

Safety and comfort extras

• First‑aid kit, any prescription meds, pain relievers, and basic bandages.

• Hygiene supplies: toilet paper, trash bags, wet wipes, feminine products, diapers, pet food, and plastic bags for makeshift sanitation if water is limited.

• Entertainment: books, cards, board games, or downloaded shows to make being stuck inside less stressful.

TL;DR: For an ice storm, buy water, non‑perishable food, extra blankets and warm clothing, flashlights with batteries, safe heat/cooking options, basic meds and hygiene supplies, and ice melt for outside surfaces.

Information gathered from public forums or data available on the internet and portrayed here.