As winter hits its full stride in the region, there is always a threat of snow and cold weather, which often makes the roads hazardous.

At the first sign of snow or when the weatherman mentions possible accumulations on television, many people rush to the nearest grocery store to buy milk, bread, eggs and other provisions.

It seems inherent that we stock up – afraid that we may be “snowed in” for a week or more.

In reality, it is rare to get huge snowfalls or blizzard conditions in this area. Sometimes it is bad enough to make the roads icy and treacherous, so school will be canceled, basketball games postponed, and even church services called off like this past Sunday.

But it is common to go to the store to see the shelves bare of bread, the coolers low on milk and crowded lines at the cash register trying to get in and out of the store.

I have to admit that I will go out a couple of days ahead to stock up on a few things. Even though it is just my wife Vicki and me at home now, we go through a lot of milk and bread.

But it’s always good to get a few other things like soup, crackers, lunch meat and other essentials that are good for the colder weather. I also have to admit I need to get my chips, pop and sweets, especially chocolate. We don’t want to be caught “snowed in” without certain things.

But in reality, it is good to be prepared for natural disasters.

The “preppers” you may have seen on certain shows are probably smarter than all of us. They have a storage room filled with non-perishable food items, bottled water, flashlight batteries and a radio.

They are prepared for power outages. Many of them have gas-powered generators.

I say, “What’s wrong with that.”

While none of us can control the weather, when a snowstorm is predicted, psychologists suggest that people may buy supplies to feel in control over their situation.

One column I read on the internet stated that if you buy canned goods and things like macaroni and cheese, you may unconsciously accept that the storm is here for the long haul. Buying milk or eggs means you unconsciously believe that it may be a few days before you get back at the store soon enough to restock.

But just like the doomsday preppers, it is OK to prepare for snow storms, floods, power outages and any other natural or man-made disaster that may occur.

Yes, stocking up on bread and milk for 1-inch snow is perhaps a bit overboard, but there are other things people should “run to the store” and buy for a more prolonged weather event. The American Red Cross preparedness website recommends:

Water, 1 gallon per person per day

Non-perishable foods (Note: eggs, bread and milk are perishable)

Flashlights

Batteries

Sanitation products (like toilet paper)

Blankets

Extra cash (The ATMs don’t work if the power is out)

Cellphone chargers (Make sure you charge your cellphone)

It’s good to have a bag packed with some warm clothing like extra socks, sweatshirts and any other items you may need. Having your gas tank full is also good.

It is also important to ensure any prescription medications you have are filled and that you are stocked up on your over-the-counter meds.

If you have young children or babies, think about items they will need. Diapers, wipes, and it’s good to have paper towels and hand sanitizer on hand. If you have to leave, let them take their favorite stuffed animal or toy so they will have some comfort and a feeling of home.

You may laugh at people who stock up when your favorite meteorologist mentions the first sign of snow. Even with modern technology and Doppler radar, they don’t always get the forecast correct.

But it is good to be ready for certain situations that may hit you and your family when you least expect it.

Like the old Boy Scouts motto says, “Be Prepared.”

(Kyle Lovern is a longtime journalist in the Tug Valley. He is now a retired freelance writer and columnist for the Mountain Citizen.)