01/22/2026
Here is some helpful information from the Franklin County Health Dept. regarding preparation for the upcoming inclement weather event. ☃️
⚠️ WINTER WEATHER PREPARATION FOR FAMILIES WITH BABIES & SMALL CHILDREN l
For families in Franklin County and surrounding areas, winter weather is expected this weekend, with the possibility of snow, ice, and very cold temperatures.
These conditions increase the risk of power outages, unsafe travel, and limited access to supplies. Families with newborns, infants, and small children should prepare ahead of time.
STAYING WARM IF THE POWER GOES OUT
👶Babies and young children lose body heat more quickly than adults.
💚Dress everyone in layers, including a warm base layer, socks, and hats for infants and toddlers. Keep in mind with layers that they babies, infants and toddlers overheat fast as well.
👶Keep babies in footed pajamas or layered sleepers.
💚Choose one central “warm room” in your home and close off unused rooms. Use towels or blankets to block drafts under doors and around windows.
💚Have extra blankets or sleeping bags ready, and follow safe sleep guidance for infants by keeping blankets away from faces.
💚Only use heating devices that are clearly labeled safe for indoor use. Never use outdoor heaters, grills, or generators inside the home due to carbon monoxide risk.
💚If warming up briefly in a vehicle, ensure the exhaust pipe is clear of snow and never run a car inside a garage.
WATER PREPAREDNESS
💧Plan for at least one gallon of water per person per day for a minimum of three days.
💧This includes drinking water, infant formula preparation, and basic hygiene.
💧Before the storm arrives, consider filling bathtubs or clean containers with water for flushing toilets or handwashing if needed.
💧If using powdered infant formula, ensure you have enough clean water or ready-to-feed formula available.
FOOD & BABY SUPPLIES
🥨Keep shelf-stable, no-cook foods available in case power is lost.
🥨Good options include canned foods, peanut butter, crackers, granola bars, and shelf-stable snacks.
🥨For babies, stock extra formula, baby food, bottles, ni***es, and feeding supplies.
🥨Keep a manual can opener accessible.
🧷Have extra diapers, wipes, diaper cream, medications, and any essential supplies you would not want to run out of for several days.
LIGHTING & COMMUNICATION
🔦Have flashlights with extra batteries ready.
🔦Avoid candles when possible, especially around children and bedding.
📱Charge phones and power banks ahead of time.
🔋A battery-powered or hand-crank radio can help you stay informed if power is lost.
TRAVEL CONSIDERATIONS
🚗Travel only if absolutely necessary if roads become icy or snow-covered.
🚙If travel is unavoidable, keep blankets, warm clothing, water, and snacks in your vehicle.
🚗Let someone know where you are going and when you expect to arrive.
FINAL NOTE FOR FAMILIES
💚Preparation does not mean panic. It means peace of mind.
💚Taking time now helps ensure your baby stays warm, hydrated, and safe if winter weather impacts our area.
If you have questions related to newborn care, infant feeding, or postpartum support during storms or power outages, reach out to your support network. You are not meant to do this alone.
