(METRO) Winter arrived with fanfare as Christmas, Chanukah and New Year’s Eve all take place within days of the first day of the season. Parties and shopping may distract people from the weather around them, but after resolutions are made and the decorations are packed away, it’s not long before it’s time to confront winter’s wrath.Storms are commonplace in January and February in many parts of the world, and even March storms are not unheard of. Knowing how to prepare for storms can keep people safer and prevent home damage. If a storm is forecasted, follow these guidelines.

—Charge a mobile phone and other electronic devices to full battery in advance of the storm in case power goes out.—Stock the home with extra batteries for flashlights and battery-powered devices, such as a portable radio.—Invest in a car charger to charge devices if the power is out for some time.—Keep a supply of canned or boxed nonperishable items, as well as convenience foods that do not need to be cooked,...