Prepare Your Home for Storms

Before Storm Season

•  Review homeowners insurance coverage

•  Know your wind, hail, flood, and hurricane coverage

•  Photograph major belongings

•  Create or update a home inventory

•  Store important documents securely

•  Identify the safest room in your home

•  Know local evacuation routes

•  Know how to shut off water

•  Know how to shut off electricity if necessary

•  Know how to shut off gas if instructed by authorities

•  Trim dead or weak tree limbs

•  Inspect roof

•  Repair loose shingles

•  Clean gutters

•  Clear downspouts

•  Secure loose fencing

•  Check drainage around foundation

•  Inspect sump pump

•  Consider battery backup for sump pump

•  Service generator if applicable

•  Store generator fuel safely

•  Test smoke and CO detectors

•  Check fire extinguishers

  
  

Emergency Supply Kit

•  Drinking water

•  Nonperishable food

•  Manual can opener

•  Flashlights

•  Extra batteries

•  Portable phone chargers

•  Battery-powered or hand-crank radio

•  First aid supplies

•  Necessary medications

•  Copies of important documents

•  Cash

•  Pet supplies

•  Baby/child supplies

•  Hygiene products

•  Blankets

•  Basic tools

•  Work gloves

•  Weather radio if desired

  
  

When a Storm Is Forecast

•  Charge phones

•  Charge power banks

•  Fill vehicle fuel tanks

•  Bring patio furniture inside

•  Secure grills

•  Secure trash cans

•  Secure toys and outdoor décor

•  Close umbrellas

•  Secure trampolines

•  Move vehicles into garage or covered area if possible

•  Close and lock windows

•  Close garage door

•  Secure shutters if applicable

•  Clear gutters and storm drains if safe

•  Fill needed prescriptions

•  Gather flashlights

•  Keep shoes nearby

•  Move valuables away from basement/flood-prone areas

•  Unplug sensitive electronics if appropriate

•  Bring pets inside

•  Review evacuation plan

•  Monitor official weather alerts

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After the Storm

•  Wait for official guidance before leaving shelter

•  Avoid downed power lines

•  Avoid standing floodwater

•  Photograph damage before cleanup

•  Check roof from ground level

•  Check for broken windows

•  Look for water intrusion

•  Inspect attic

•  Check basement/crawlspace

•  Check trees for dangerous limbs

•  Check exterior utilities

•  Contact insurance company when appropriate

•  Keep receipts for emergency repairs

•  Use licensed professionals for major repairs