WINTER STORM TECH TO KEEP YOU PREPARED
You know it’s serious when Jim Cantore shows up. He’s been an awesome friend for many years and someone I love joining on-air. I had the opportunity to meet up with him in my home territory of Boston while he was covering Winter Storm Kenan to share some ways tech can help keep you safe.
Segment below also with a lineup of my gadget choices and some bonuses we didn’t have time for on-air!
Portable Power Stations
Nearly 100k here in Massachusetts were without power yesterday as the winter storms rolled in. Backup portable units are great to have at home when the power goes out. Some power stations (like the one I featured on-air) can handle the charge of a small fridge, gaming computer and even a small TV. Look for a unit with multiple ports that can charge multiple devices at once. I also prefer an on-screen LED monitor displaying input and output so during an emergency, when every last drop of power is important, you know exactly how much power remains.
Emergency Crank Radio
For under $40 an emergency hand crank radio is a great option to keep in the car or at home. Many models come equipped with a NOAA radio, flashlight, and two USB ports so you can charge your phone and a solar panel. Multiple charging modes: micro-USB, solar and my favorite the hand crank option -- reassuring that if necessary you can generate your own power.
Removable Spikes for shoes and boots
For the crazies like me who like to go for a blizzard run or take a causal trip to the grocery store – avoid any icy slips by spiking your shoes! Available in a number of different styles from Yaktrax to Due North there are tons of removable spike options that clamp easy to any shoes or boots. They provide amazing traction even on the most snowy or icy surfaces.
Rechargeable Heated Scarf and Earmuffs
It’s all about the right gear. Two of my favorite, go-to, warm clothing items for many years have been this flannel heated scarf and heated earmuffs from Hammacher Schlemmer. With the touch of a button adjust to three heat settings and up to six hours of battery life. They really keeps you toasty warm and help you stay outside longer.
OROS Apparel
You may have noticed that Jim Cantore loved my jacket. Stylish and functionable, OROS is all about high tech built right into the design. OROS uses a NASA-inspired SOLARCORE technology to keep you warm and insulated. One of their top sellers, the highly coveted parka is waterproof breathable, and can provide up to 70% warmth and up to 200% less bulk than other options like goose down. From leggings to ¾ zip to jackets, this brand has been a huge go-to for me in some of the coldest travel across the globe including filming in -20 in Iceland for hours straight!