Winter Storm Emergency Checklist

Overview

Winter storms are among the most dangerous weather events in the United States. The National Weather Service issues winter storm warnings for blizzards, ice storms, heavy snow, and extreme cold that can strand travelers, knock out power for days, and create life-threatening conditions. Hypothermia, frostbite, carbon monoxide poisoning, and car accidents are leading causes of winter storm fatalities.

This checklist walks you through everything you need in three clear phases: before the storm, during the storm, and after the storm. Each item is organized by priority so you can act quickly when a winter weather advisory is issued for your area. Print it, post it on your fridge, and review it every autumn before the first freeze.

Before the Storm: Preparation Checklist

When a winter storm watch or warning is issued, complete these tasks immediately. Acting early gives you the best chance of staying safe and comfortable.

• Stock 3 to 7 days of non-perishable food — Canned soups, stews, beans, peanut butter, crackers, granola bars, dried fruit, nuts, and canned tuna. Include a manual can opener.
• Store 1 gallon of water per person per day — A family of four needs a minimum of 12 gallons for three days. Fill bathtubs with extra water for flushing toilets.
• Fill prescription medications — Refill any essential medications before the storm. Keep a 7-day emergency supply in a waterproof container.
• Charge all devices fully — Phones, tablets, laptops, portable power banks, and rechargeable flashlights. Charge power banks to 100%.
• Fill your vehicle's gas tank — A full tank prevents fuel line freezing and ensures you can evacuate or reach help if needed.
• Check heating fuel supply — Verify propane, oil, or wood supply is adequate. Have your chimney or furnace inspected before winter.
• Test smoke and CO detectors — Replace batteries if needed. Winter storms increase fire and carbon monoxide risks from generators and heating equipment.
• Bring outdoor pets inside — Move pet houses, food, and water indoors. Check that livestock shelters are windproof and well-bedded.

During the Storm: Stay Safe Actions

Once the storm hits, your priority is staying warm, safe, and informed. Avoid all unnecessary travel.

• Stay indoors and off the roads — Do not drive unless absolutely necessary. Most winter storm deaths occur in vehicle accidents or from exposure while stranded.
• Keep one room heated — Close doors to unused rooms. Gather the family in one main room and use blankets to seal door gaps. This conserves heat.
• Run generators outdoors only — Place generators at least 20 feet from windows, doors, and vents. Never run one inside your home, garage, or any enclosed space.
• Monitor NOAA weather radio — Keep your battery-powered or hand-crank weather radio on for updates. Do not rely on cell towers, which may fail.
• Conserve phone battery — Switch to low-power mode. Text instead of calling. Turn off Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and unnecessary apps.
• Keep faucets dripping &mdash> Let cold water drip from faucets served by exposed pipes. Moving water is less likely to freeze and burst pipes.
• Avoid using ovens for heat — Gas ovens can release carbon monoxide. Electric ovens are a fire risk when used for extended periods. Use approved space heaters or fireplace only.
• Check on neighbors — If safe to do so, check on elderly or disabled neighbors who may need assistance during the storm.

After the Storm: Recovery Checklist

Once the storm passes, take these steps to safely recover and return to normal life.

• Wait for official all-clear before traveling — Do not venture out until roads are plowed and authorities confirm it is safe. Check local emergency management updates.
• Clear snow safely — Shovel in short bursts to avoid overexertion. Heart attacks spike after snowstorms due to heavy lifting in cold air. Take frequent breaks.
• Check roof for heavy snow load — If more than 2 feet of wet, heavy snow accumulates on your roof, contact a professional to assess structural risk.
• Inspect pipes for damage — Look for burst or cracked pipes. If you find damage, shut off the main water valve immediately and call a plumber.
• Check food safety — If power was out for more than 4 hours, check refrigerator temperature. Discard perishable items above 40 degrees Fahrenheit for more than 2 hours.
• Check for carbon monoxide exposure — If anyone feels dizzy, nauseous, or has a headache after using a generator or fireplace, get fresh air immediately and call 911.
• Document any damage — Take photos and videos of property damage for insurance claims before cleaning up.
• Restock your emergency kit — Replace any used items immediately. Set a calendar reminder to review your kit every six months.

Emergency Supplies Checklist

These are the essential supplies every household needs for winter storm preparedness. Gather them before winter begins and check them monthly during storm season.

• Heating — Extra blankets, sleeping bags, warm clothing layers, hand warmers, body warmers, portable space heater (with automatic shut-off), fireplace tools and seasoned firewood.
• Lighting — LED flashlights (2 per person), headlamps, battery-powered lanterns, extra batteries in all sizes, candles and windproof matches.
• Communication — NOAA weather radio, portable power bank (20,000mAh+), car phone charger, printed emergency contact list, paper maps, whistle.
• First Aid — Comprehensive first aid kit, prescription medications, pain relievers, hand sanitizer, sunscreen (snow glare), lip balm.
• Food and Water — Water (1 gallon per person per day), water purification tablets, non-perishable food, manual can opener, camping stove with fuel, electrolyte packets.
• Tools — Multi-tool, duct tape, zip ties, work gloves, sturdy boots, snow shovel, ice scraper, windshield washer fluid, kitty litter or sand for traction.
• Documents — Important papers in waterproof bag, insurance information, medical records, emergency cash in small bills ($50-$100).
• Sanitation — Garbage bags, plastic ties, moist towelettes, hand sanitizer, toilet paper, portable toilet or bucket with bags.

Vehicle Winter Checklist

If you must drive during or after a winter storm, your vehicle needs specific supplies. Keep these in your trunk throughout winter.

• Jumper cables or portable jump starter — Cold weather drains batteries faster. A portable jump starter eliminates the need for another vehicle.
• Windshield ice scraper and snow brush — Clear your windshield completely before driving. Never use hot water on a frozen windshield.
• Small snow shovel — Dig yourself out of a snowbank or clear a path around your vehicle if plows block you in.
• Kitty litter or sand — Spread under tires for traction on ice. Also useful for providing footing on slippery walkways.
• Tow strap or recovery rope — A 20-foot recovery strap rated for your vehicle's weight lets another driver pull you from a ditch or snowbank.
• Extra warm clothing — Keep a jacket, hat, gloves, warm socks, and a blanket in your car. If stranded, these items prevent hypothermia.
• Emergency flares or LED beacons — Place behind your vehicle to warn other drivers if you are stopped on the roadside.
• Fuel additive or anti-gel — Diesel fuel can gel in extreme cold. Keep a fuel additive in your tank if you drive a diesel vehicle in northern climates.

Family Safety Tips

Winter storms pose unique risks to families. Follow these guidelines to keep everyone safe.

• Teach children about cold-weather safety — Explain the dangers of playing on frozen ponds, climbing snowbanks near roads, and touching metal surfaces with bare hands in extreme cold.
• Dress in layers — Wear a moisture-wicking base layer, an insulating middle layer, and a waterproof outer layer. Cover extremities with hats, gloves, and scarves.
• Know the signs of hypothermia — Shivering, confusion, slurred speech, drowsiness, and loss of coordination are warning signs. Get the person indoors and warm immediately.
• Know the signs of frostbite — Numbness, white or grayish skin, and hard texture indicate frostbite. Warm the affected area gradually with warm (not hot) water.
• Keep an emergency plan — Know your family's meeting point, evacuation routes, and how to contact each other if separated. Review the plan annually.
• Avoid carbon monoxide poisoning — Never use a generator, camp stove, or charcoal grill indoors. Install CO detectors on every level of your home and test them monthly.
• Prepare for power outages — Have blankets, flashlights, and non-perishable food ready. Fill sinks with water before the storm for flushing toilets if the power goes out.
• Keep car seats accessible — If you have young children, keep extra car seat covers and warm blankets in your vehicle. Warm car seats before placing children in them.

Printable Winter Storm Checklist

Use this condensed version for quick reference. Print it and keep it on your fridge or in your emergency kit.

Recovery Recommendations

After the storm passes, a careful recovery process helps you avoid injury and additional damage.

• Monitor for roof stress — Heavy, wet snow can collapse roofs. If you hear creaking or see sagging ceilings, evacuate the area immediately and call a professional.
• Remove snow from walkways — Clear paths to exits, utility meters, and fire hydrants. Use salt or ice melt to prevent slips and falls.
• Check for ice dams — Ice buildup along roof edges can cause water to back up under shingles. Remove ice carefully with a roof rake from the ground.
• Inspect your vehicle thoroughly — Check tire pressure (cold reduces it), fluid levels, battery condition, and brakes before driving after a storm.
• Contact your insurance company promptly — Report damage as soon as possible. Take photos of all damage before cleaning up or making temporary repairs.
• Update your emergency kit — Replace used batteries, food, and water. Note which items proved most useful and which were missing. Adjust your kit for the next event.

Winter Storm Checklist FAQs

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