01/22/2026
❄️ Winter Storm Alert: Stay Safe, Prepared – Including Your Pets! ❄️
Hey Indianapolis neighbors! With the upcoming winter storm bringing heavy snow, bitterly cold temps, and wind chills dropping well below zero this weekend, it's time to double-check your preparations. At State Farm, we're all about protecting what matters most – your family, home, vehicle... and your furry family members too!
For Your Car – Emergency Kit Essentials:
Blankets or sleeping bags
Extra warm clothes (hats, gloves, socks)
Flashlight with extra batteries
First-aid kit
Jumper cables, ice scraper, and small shovel
Non-perishable snacks and bottled water
Phone charger and portable power bank
Pro tip: Charge your phone fully and share travel plans if you're heading out.
At Home – Winter Readiness Checklist:
Stock non-perishable food, water (3+ days per person), and medications
Gather flashlights, batteries, and a battery-powered radio
Extra blankets and warm layers
Charge devices and consider backup power
Never use grills/generators indoors!
Pet Safety Tips – Keep Your Furry Friends Warm & Protected:
Bring pets indoors during extreme cold – if it's too cold for you, it's too cold for them! Limit outdoor time and watch for signs of hypothermia (shivering, weakness, or seeking warm spots to burrow).
Prepare a pet emergency kit:
Several days' worth of food/water in waterproof containers, medications, sturdy leash/harness/carrier, litter (for cats), bedding/blankets, and current ID tags or microchip info.
Protect paws from ice, salt, and chemicals – use pet-safe booties, paw balm, or petroleum jelly; wipe paws after walks to prevent licking irritants.
Never leave pets in a car (it can turn into a freezer), and ensure outdoor animals (if any) have insulated, dry shelter with unfrozen water.
Keep antifreeze and de-icers out of reach – they're toxic!
If the storm brings damage to your home, car, or property, we're here to help file claims and get you back on track. Reach out anytime to review your coverage – better safe than sorry!
Stay warm, drive carefully, and give those pets extra cuddles. We've got this together! 💙🐶🐱
Questions or need coverage tips? Comment below or message us!