Winter storms can cause power outages, frozen pipes, dangerous travel conditions, and disruptions to daily life. Use this checklist to prepare before severe weather arrives.
Before the Storm
☐ Charge phones, power banks, flashlights, and other rechargeable devices.
☐ Fill vehicle fuel tanks before road conditions worsen.
☐ Keep some cash available in case electronic payment systems are unavailable.
☐ Refill prescriptions and gather essential medications.
☐ Download maps, books, entertainment, and important information for offline access.
☐ Identify a warm room where family members can gather if heating is lost.
☐ Locate the home’s water shutoff valve and electrical panel.
☐ Lower refrigerator and freezer temperatures to help food stay cold longer during outages.
Water and Pipe Protection
☐ Disconnect garden hoses from outdoor faucets.
☐ Protect outdoor faucets with insulated covers.
☐ Allow vulnerable faucets to drip during extreme cold.
☐ Open sink cabinet doors to help warm air reach plumbing.
☐ Store extra water for drinking, washing, and sanitation.
☐ Review how to quickly shut off water if a pipe bursts.
Food and Kitchen Supplies
☐ Store several days of non-perishable food.
☐ Ensure a manual can opener is available.
☐ Keep shelf-stable or powdered milk on hand if needed.
☐ Freeze containers of water to help keep freezers cold during outages.
☐ Have a cooler available for temporary food storage.
☐ Limit purchases of highly perishable foods immediately before the storm.
Heat and Home Safety
☐ Gather extra blankets, sleeping bags, and warm clothing.
☐ Inspect fireplaces, wood stoves, or alternate heating systems.
☐ Test smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors.
☐ Place flashlights where they can be easily found.
☐ Stock spare batteries for essential devices.
☐ Use battery-powered lighting whenever possible.
☐ Never operate generators or grills inside homes, garages, or enclosed spaces.
Vehicle Readiness
☐ Avoid unnecessary travel once freezing rain or ice begins.
☐ Check tires, windshield wipers, and washer fluid.
☐ Pack blankets, water, snacks, gloves, and chargers in your vehicle.
☐ Park away from large trees, branches, and power lines.
☐ Expect possible delays or closures on major roads and transportation routes.
Power Outage Planning
☐ Unplug sensitive electronics before severe weather arrives.
☐ Keep a battery-powered radio or weather-alert device available.
☐ Use surge protectors on electronics.
☐ Know the location of local warming centers or emergency shelters.
☐ Prepare extension cords and generator supplies if applicable.
☐ Keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed as much as possible during outages.
Pets and Livestock
☐ Bring pets indoors when temperatures become dangerous.
☐ Store extra pet food and water.
☐ Ensure livestock have access to shelter and dry bedding.
☐ Check that outdoor animals have access to unfrozen water.
☐ Keep leashes, carriers, and animal supplies readily accessible.
Medical and Special Needs
☐ Maintain an updated list of medications and dosages.
☐ Stock a basic first-aid kit.
☐ Keep backup batteries for medical equipment.
☐ Identify an alternate location with power if medical needs require it.
Property Protection
☐ Secure outdoor furniture and loose items.
☐ Move vehicles away from trees and power lines.
☐ Complete tree maintenance before storms arrive.
☐ Photograph property and valuable items for insurance records.
During the Storm
☐ Stay indoors whenever possible.
☐ Avoid driving unless absolutely necessary.
☐ Treat all downed power lines as dangerous.
☐ Use only approved indoor heating methods.
☐ Monitor weather updates and emergency notifications.
☐ Check on family, friends, and neighbors when safe to do so.
☐ Report outages through utility company reporting systems.
Preparation completed before a storm arrives is often the difference between a minor inconvenience and a major emergency. A few hours of planning today can save significant stress and hardship later.
© Prepping Communities. This content is for informational purposes only and not professional advice. Use at your own risk.
Terms | Privacy | Guidelines