Checklist · before, during, after

Winter Storm Checklist

A big storm gives you a day or two of warning. Use it. Tick off each item as you go. Your progress saves on this phone.

Supplies to have at home

Before the storm

Charge every phone, laptop and power bankFill the car's gas tankCheck the car's winter kit: blanket, scraper, jumper cables, snacksBring in outdoor pets and anything that could blow awayKnow how to shut off your water if pipes freezeCheck on older neighbours and relatives and make a plan to call themLet faucets drip slightly on very cold nights if your pipes are prone to freezing

During the storm

Stay indoors and off the roads if you canNever use a generator, grill or camp stove indoors or in a garage (carbon monoxide risk)Keep generators outside, away from windows and doorsClose off rooms you aren't using to keep heat inDress in layers and keep everyone in one warm room if the heat goes offCheck your carbon monoxide alarm is working

After the storm

Check on neighbours, especially older onesClear snow from heating and dryer vents outsideShovel slowly and take breaks; snow shovelling is hard workWatch for downed power lines and report themRestock what you used

General preparedness information based on common public-safety guidance. Always follow instructions from your local officials.

More emergency checklists

Questions

What should I buy before a winter storm?

Water, food that needs no cooking, flashlights and batteries, a charged power bank, warm blankets, any medicines you need, and ice melt or sand.

Is it safe to run a generator in the garage?

No. Generators, grills and camp stoves give off carbon monoxide and must only be used outdoors, away from windows, doors and vents.

Where do these recommendations come from?

They follow common public-safety guidance such as Ready.gov. Always follow instructions from your local officials.