Winter Weather Preparedness Tips: Secure Food and Fuel in Georgia

Ash Brown
2 hours ago
3 min read

Winter weather can bring unexpected challenges to Georgia, a state not always accustomed to harsh cold or heavy snow. When severe winter storms hit, they can disrupt daily life, cause power outages, and make travel dangerous. Georgia Governor Brian Kemp has urged residents to prepare ahead of any winter weather threat by securing food supplies and filling up on gas. Taking these steps early can help families stay safe and comfortable during cold spells.

This guide offers practical tips on how to prepare your home and family for winter weather in Georgia, focusing on securing food and fuel. Whether you live in Atlanta or a rural area, these tips will help you face winter storms with confidence.

Eye-level view of a stocked pantry with canned goods and dry food — Pantry stocked with essential canned and dry foods for winter preparedness

Why Preparing for Winter Weather Matters in Georgia

Georgia’s winters are usually mild, but occasional cold snaps and storms can cause serious disruptions. Roads may become icy, power lines can go down, and stores might run out of essential supplies. Many Georgians are not used to these conditions, which makes preparation even more important.

Governor Kemp’s advice to “secure food, fill up on gas” highlights two critical areas:

Food security ensures you have enough to eat if you cannot leave home for several days.
Fuel availability guarantees you can keep your vehicle ready for emergencies and maintain heating if needed.

Failing to prepare can lead to dangerous situations, especially for vulnerable populations such as the elderly, families with young children, or those with medical needs.

How to Secure Food for Winter Weather

Stocking up on food is about more than just buying extra groceries. It means choosing the right types of food that will last, provide nutrition, and be easy to prepare without power if necessary.

Choose Non-Perishable Foods

Focus on foods that do not spoil quickly and require minimal cooking:

Canned vegetables, fruits, and beans
Canned meats like tuna, chicken, or salmon
Dry pasta, rice, and grains
Peanut butter and nut butters
Shelf-stable milk or milk alternatives
Ready-to-eat cereals and granola bars
Dried fruits and nuts

Plan for Balanced Nutrition

Even in emergencies, aim for meals that provide protein, carbohydrates, and vitamins. For example:

Combine canned beans with rice for a filling meal.
Use peanut butter with crackers or bread.
Add canned fruit for vitamins and fiber.

Store Water Safely

Water is essential. Keep at least one gallon of water per person per day for drinking and sanitation. If you rely on well water, consider storing extra water in clean containers.

Prepare for Power Outages

If the power goes out, cooking options may be limited. Consider:

Having a manual can opener
Using a camping stove or grill outdoors (never indoors due to carbon monoxide risk)
Stocking ready-to-eat meals like canned soups or MREs (meals ready to eat)