Essential Winter Storm Preparedness Checklist and Must-Have Items for Safety
- Purely Reserved Solutions
- 4 days ago
- 6 min read
Updated: 3 days ago
In this life, I've been gifted the amazing opportunity to live in three different states, each with abundant beauty, diversity, and unique challenges. Without a doubt, I'm grateful for all those elements and certainly learned so much from every experience. Growing up in Central Kentucky for example, we could generally expect mild-ish weather throughout the four distinct seasons, usually characterized by humid summers and chilly winters with mostly pleasant spring/fall months. However, there have been a few cruel storms over the years that shall always haunt us and continue to serve as a vivid reminder that it's best to be ready when Mother Nature decides to shake things up a bit. ❄️
Having lived in Florida for the past decade, we became quite adept at securing our home for many hurricanes as well. Come to find out, there's actually a lot of similarities between winter storms and hurricane aftermath, beyond the obvious freezing or blazing temperatures. Unfortunately, power outages are highly probable and there are so many considerations to think of for safety sake.
Winter storms can strike suddenly, bringing ice, snow, and frosty temperatures that disrupt daily life and pose serious health risks. Preparing ahead of time helps protect your home, family, and well-being when the weather turns harsh. This guide offers a clear checklist of actions to take before a winter storm and a list of essential items to have on hand. Being ready means you can face the threat with confidence and reduce stress during challenging conditions.
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Prepare Your Home for Winter Storms
Taking steps beforehand to winterize your home can prevent damage and keep your living space secure and warm.
Trim Trees and Shrubs
Tree limbs become very heavy from the weight of ice and snow, quickly creating a scary issue for cars parked beneath them or your roof/windows/electric lines etc. Check with the city for help with removal of any over hanging/broken branches as a precaution.
Inspect and Insulate Pipes
Frozen pipes can burst and cause costly water damage. Wrap exposed pipes with insulation or heat tape, especially those in unheated areas like basements or attics.
Seal Windows and Doors
Use weather stripping or caulk to close gaps that let cold air in. This helps maintain indoor warmth and lowers heating costs.
Check Heating Systems
Have your furnace or heating system serviced before winter. Replace filters and ensure vents are clear to keep heat flowing efficiently.
Stock Up on Rock Salt or Ice Melt
Keep supplies ready to treat walkways and driveways to prevent slips and falls. Kitty litter works in a pinch too.
Clear Gutters and Downspouts
Remove leaves and debris to avoid ice dams that can damage your roof.
Keep Water Bottles in the Freezer
If you do loose power, the frozen bottles will help keep the fridge temperature safe and they're also great to have ready for coolers throughout the year as well.
Take Pictures of Belongings
For insurance purposes and your own peace of mind, keeping records of high-value items like vehicles, electronics, jewelry, or furniture (including serial numbers) can ensure proper compensation if damage occurs. Photos provide proof and streamlines insurance claims as companies may require evidence of what was lost, so having "before" photos reduces disputes. Email these pictures to yourself so you can access them from anywhere.
Essential Items to Have on Hand
When a winter storm hits, power outages and limited travel can last for days. Having the right supplies ensures you stay safe and comfortable.
Water
Store at least one gallon per person, per day for drinking and sanitation. Aim for a three-day supply.
Non-Perishable Food
Stock canned goods, dried fruits, nuts, crackers, jerky, juice, gatorade, and ready-to-eat meals that don’t require cooking.
Portable Generator
If you do not have a whole home generator for backup power, purchase a portable one like this Yamaha we've had for years, but be sure to follow safety guidelines and never operate it indoors. Store extra cans of gas for refilling as needed.
Flashlights
AVOID CANDLES due to fire risk. Keep LED flashlights in every room to provide reliable light during outages.
Battery-Powered or Hand-Crank Radio
Stay informed about weather updates and emergency instructions from local authorities or even music to pass the time.
Warm Clothing and Blankets
Layered clothing, hats, gloves, and thermal blankets help retain body temperature if heating fails.
First Aid Kit
Include bandages, antiseptics, pain relievers, and any necessary prescription medications. *Remember to make arrangements for any medical equipment that requires electricity as well.
Battery Tote
Keep your batteries organized in one place because it's hard to remember which kind goes with what product, especially when rushing around. Not only useful for emergencies, it's nice to have them ready for camping or daily use. Plus, you’ll know when to put them on your grocery list if running low.
Fire Extinguisher
It's important to always have a fire extinguisher accessible in case of emergencies.
Portable Phone Charger
Keep your phone charged to maintain communication.
Snow Shovel and Ice Scraper
Clear paths and your vehicle to prevent accidents.
Safety Checklist of Things to Do Before the Winter Storm
Taking action before the storm arrives can reduce risks and improve your ability to cope with any issues that may occur.
Monitor Weather Reports
Stay updated through reliable sources like NOAA and local radio stations to know the status of the storm.
Charge Electronics
Fully charge phones, laptops, and power banks. Download movies and shows in advance to pass the time.
Have Cash on Hand
If there's no power, ATMs may be unavailable and stores can't run credit card machines. So, if they manage to be open, bring cash just in case.
Put Gas in All Vehicles
Fuel shortages can occur during severe weather and it's important to have full gas tanks in case of emergency or if you absolutely have to travel.
Fill Up Bathtubs With Fresh Water
You may need to utilize this water for a ‘spit’ bath or to flush the toilet during an outage. Keep a bucket and/or cups nearby to aid in washing dishes or hands.
Protect Water Pipes
Let faucets drip slightly during extreme cold. Open cabinet doors under sink. Know how to shut off your main water valve beforehand.
Bring Pets Indoors
Ensure animals have shelter, medications, food, and water.
Prepare an Emergency Kit for Your Car
Include blankets, food, water, a flashlight, and a first aid kit.
Inform Family or Neighbors
Establish a communication plan with family and friends in case you are separated during the storm. Ensure everyone knows how to contact each other by texting/emailing a list of important numbers/instructions to loved ones and update it as necessary.
Adjust Thermostat Settings
Keep your home warm but conserve energy by lowering the temperature slightly when you are asleep or away.
Disconnect Outdoor Hoses
Prevent frozen pipes by draining and storing garden hoses.
Locate Important Documents
Always keep ID's, passports, insurance, wills, etc. in a safe place.
Write Down Necessary Phone Numbers
A printed copy of emergency services and family member's numbers should always be with you because if your phone is unavailable you likely won't have them memorized.
Staying Safe During the Storm
Once the storm begins, follow these tips:
Stay indoors and avoid travel unless absolutely necessary.
Use generators outdoors only to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.
Avoid using ovens or stoves for heating.
Keep a battery-powered radio nearby for emergency updates.
Conserve heat by closing off unused rooms and using blankets.
After the Storm
Once conditions improve, take these steps:
Follow instructions from local authorities before going out or returning home.
Clear snow and ice from walkways carefully to avoid injury.
Inspect your home for any damage, especially to pipes and the roof.
Restock emergency supplies if you used them during the storm.
Report any downed power lines or hazards to authorities.
Check on vulnerable neighbors.
Always stay aware even when the weather clears.
Hopefully this Winter Storm Safety Checklist will give you a sense of comfort and security during a weather event. Preparation is key during storms so, stay informed, have a plan, and be ready to act quickly if necessary. Please let me know if you have any questions or suggestions and stay warm! 💫
