RENO, Nev. (KOLO) – “You never want this to happen to you, but it always happens somewhere in town. It’s extremely important to be prepared,” said Patrick Hansen, general manager of Shelly’s True Value Hardware. The store stocks the shelves with winter hardware and appliances you may need in your home.

Although the valley floor has seen minor snowfall so far this year, the snow will often have a negative impact on power lines. “Last year we saw (demand for) our battery-powered light bulb. They are storm resistant in the event of a power outage. It’s a big fear in winter. You may have those few lights in the house that stay on.

You may need a shovel to clear your driveway or IceMelt. “We have many different varieties. Many people with pets are concerned, but we also try to take care of our customers in this way. We have a pet-friendly ice melting service that is safe for pets.

People planning to cross I-80 should have extra blankets and hand warmers in case they get stuck. “I know personally, we were on the pass a few times when it was snowing heavily and you definitely look down the list and think, ‘Oh, it would have been nice to have that.’”

For example, a good tool to have is a roadside assistance kit or lights. “This little kit; it’s like jumper cables, a flashlight or other small things that might come in handy if you’re stranded on the road or there’s a wreck in front of you and you’re stopped for a long time period.

Shelly’s also provides delivery, just in case you can’t leave your home.

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