Cold Weather, Hot Tips: Navigating Winter Storm Fern

As Winter Storm Fern approaches with promises of heavy snow and frigid temperatures across much of the country, Americans are preparing for what could be a historic weather event. With potentially 220 million people in its path and forecasts predicting up to 12 inches of snow in New York City alone, now is the time to prepare. Experts have shared valuable advice on saving money, staying safe, and protecting your possessions during this challenging weather. From simple home heating hacks to workplace rights and essential travel preparations, these tips can help you weather the storm more comfortably and safely.

Home heating efficiency becomes crucial during extreme cold snaps when many of us will be spending extended time indoors. Energy expert Matt Oberle has shared a remarkably simple trick that could significantly reduce your heating bills during the storm. Called the “12-inch rule,” it involves moving furniture like sofas and other heavy items away from radiators by just one foot. This small adjustment creates space for warm air to circulate freely throughout your home. “You don’t need to redesign the entire room,” Oberle explains. “Once the warm air has the space to rise and circulate freely, your thermostat won’t need to call for as much energy, which directly translates into lower bills.” Many homeowners unknowingly block this convective airflow by positioning furniture too close to heat sources, essentially trapping the warmth and preventing it from heating the entire space efficiently. This simple rearrangement could make your home both more comfortable and more economical during the cold snap.

As the workweek approaches, many employees are wondering about their rights and obligations regarding attendance during dangerous weather conditions. While employers have a legal obligation to maintain workplace safety under the Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s General Duty Clause, this doesn’t automatically grant workers the right to stay home whenever conditions feel threatening. The law makes special accommodations for motor carrier employees, who can legally refuse to drive when they reasonably fear for their safety. However, for most workers, the situation is less straightforward. If you typically commute to work, you cannot simply decide unilaterally that road conditions are too dangerous. Your employer must agree with your assessment of the danger, or they maintain the legal right to implement disciplinary measures, including termination, for absence. This creates a challenging situation for workers caught between safety concerns and employment obligations during severe weather events.

For those who must venture out during the storm, proper vehicle preparation can make the difference between a manageable journey and a dangerous situation. Experts recommend both adding essential items to your car and removing potentially problematic ones before the severe weather hits. Electronic cigarettes with lithium-ion batteries should be removed from vehicles, as these batteries can become unstable in extreme temperatures. Similarly, medications should never be left in freezing cars, as cold temperatures can alter their chemical composition and effectiveness, potentially creating health risks. Even seemingly harmless items like eggs, liquids, and canned goods can burst when frozen, creating messy situations in your vehicle. On the preparation side, the National Weather Service recommends assembling an emergency kit including jumper cables, ice scrapers, flashlights, and a first aid kit. Perhaps most importantly, a phone charger should always be available, as your mobile device could become a critical lifeline should you become stranded in hazardous conditions.

Winter Storm Fern represents a significant weather challenge for millions of Americans, but proper preparation can mitigate many of its potential impacts. By implementing simple home heating efficiency measures like the 12-inch rule, you can stay comfortable while keeping energy costs manageable during extended indoor periods. Understanding your workplace rights and obligations helps you navigate employment expectations during severe weather, potentially avoiding unnecessary risks while maintaining job security. And thorough vehicle preparation—both removing problematic items and adding essential emergency supplies—ensures you’re ready for travel if absolutely necessary during the storm. While we can’t control the weather, these expert-recommended strategies give us practical tools to face Winter Storm Fern with greater confidence and safety.

As communities across the country prepare for Winter Storm Fern’s arrival, the practical advice from energy, employment, and safety experts offers valuable guidance for navigating this challenging weather event. The storm’s potential impact—affecting up to 220 million Americans with significant snowfall and dangerously low temperatures—makes these preparations especially important. While the specific challenges will vary by region, the fundamental principles of energy efficiency, workplace communication, and travel safety apply broadly. By implementing these expert recommendations, individuals and families can better protect their comfort, finances, and physical safety during what forecasters suggest could be a historic winter weather event. As Winter Storm Fern approaches, taking these practical steps now can help ensure you weather the storm as safely and comfortably as possible.