Prepare today for severe snow and ice storms

Smart move—snow and ice storms are way easier to handle when you prep before they hit. Here’s a clear, practical checklist you can use today 👇

🏠 At Home

  • Heat & power
    • Test your heating system now
    • Set thermostats consistently to avoid frozen pipes
    • Know how to safely use generators or alternative heat sources (never indoors)
  • Prevent frozen pipes
    • Insulate exposed pipes
    • Let faucets drip during extreme cold
  • Emergency kit
    • Flashlights + extra batteries
    • Battery-powered or hand-crank radio
    • Blankets, warm clothing, hats, gloves
    • Non-perishable food & bottled water (3 days minimum)
  • Smoke & CO safety
    • Check smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
    • Replace batteries if needed

🚗 Vehicles

  • Fill your gas tank (keeps fuel lines from freezing)
  • Keep an emergency car kit:
    • Ice scraper, shovel
    • Jumper cables
    • Blanket, boots, gloves
    • Snacks, water
    • Phone charger
  • Check tires, antifreeze, and windshield washer fluid

🧍‍♂️ Personal Safety

  • Limit travel during storms—ice is more dangerous than snow
  • Dress in layers and protect exposed skin
  • Check on elderly neighbors or anyone with medical needs
  • Keep phones charged and backup power banks ready

🐾 Pets & Livestock

  • Bring pets indoors when possible
  • Ensure outdoor animals have:
    • Shelter from wind
    • Extra food (they burn more calories in cold)
    • Unfrozen water

📄 Planning Ahead

  • Review your insurance coverage (home, auto, business)
  • Know how to shut off water if a pipe bursts
  • Save emergency contacts and utility outage numbers