Winter storms
While there’s no such thing as a “good” storm, winter storms can be especially dangerous because they include blizzards, ice storms, freezing rain, wind chills, sleet, black ice, and other hazards. These extreme weather events could impact your home by freezing your pipes or causing a power outage. Learn how to prepare your home and family for winter storms to stay safe and minimize damage.
How to prepare before the storm
Before winter arrives, begin preparing your home for the cold season. You can start by checking your heating system to ensure it is clean and working properly. If you have a fireplace, this is a good time to stock up on heating fuel. Also, ensure your carbon monoxide detector is functioning to help prevent carbon monoxide poisoning during a storm.
The next important step is to have an emergency kit assembled and ready. Explore our list of essential items to get started.
Pack an emergency kit
Building an emergency kit will help you respond to any situation during a winter storm. Make sure to have adequate supplies for the number of people in your household.
- One gallon of water per person for three days
- Three-day supply of nonperishable food per person
- Flashlights
- Extra batteries
- Battery-powered or hand crank radio
- First aid kit
- Necessary prescription medications
- Cellphone chargers
- Heating fuel
- Fire extinguisher
- Blankets
While this list is not exhaustive, it contains essential items to keep your family safe if the storms last more than a few hours.
What to do during the storm
Stay off the roads during a winter storm and limit your time outdoors. If you have to go outside, wear warm layers of clothing, including gloves and a hat. Extremely cold temperatures raise the risk of frostbite or hypothermia. During a winter storm, regularly check for signs of these conditions.
If you use a generator or grill during a power outage, keep it outside and away from windows. This will help minimize the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.
After the storm
Even if you think the storm is over, you should continue to listen to your local radio or TV station to receive weather updates and instructions. Continue to be cautious of your surroundings and cold temperatures. After the storm has passed, replenish any materials you used in your emergency kit so it is ready to go for the next storm.