Winter Storm Prep Checklist (Power Outage Ready)

By Cedar & Ledger

The best time to prepare for a winter storm is before the forecast turns. This checklist covers supplies, home steps and a simple plan for a power outage. Always follow guidance from your local emergency officials and utility.

This is general information, not professional safety advice.

Quick checklist

• ☐ Build a kit with water, food, light and warmth for at least a few days
• ☐ Charge phones and power banks when a storm is forecast
• ☐ Know where your water shutoff and breaker panel are
• ☐ Write down key phone numbers on paper
• ☐ Make a plan for anyone who needs medicine, power for a device, or extra help

Supplies

• ☐ Drinking water (a common guideline is about a gallon per person per day)
• ☐ Food that needs no cooking, plus a manual can opener
• ☐ Flashlights or lanterns and spare batteries (avoid candles where possible)
• ☐ Blankets, sleeping bags, warm layers, hats and gloves
• ☐ First-aid kit and a supply of prescriptions
• ☐ Battery or hand-crank radio
• ☐ Pet food and supplies
• ☐ Some cash, in case card readers are down

Home steps before the storm

• ☐ Test smoke and carbon monoxide alarms
• ☐ Know how to keep pipes from freezing (insulate exposed pipes; a slow drip can help)
• ☐ Keep gutters and vents clear
• ☐ Have salt or sand and a shovel ready
• ☐ Fill the car's gas tank and keep a winter car kit inside

During a power outage

• Keep fridge and freezer doors closed as much as possible.
• Never run a generator, grill or camp stove indoors or in a garage. Carbon monoxide is a real risk.
• Close off rooms you are not using and gather in one room to stay warm.
• Unplug sensitive electronics so a power surge does not damage them when power returns.
• Check on neighbors who live alone, if it is safe to do so.

After the storm

• Check food safety: when in doubt, throw it out.
• Look for frozen or burst pipes.
• Photograph any damage and keep receipts for repairs.
• Restock the kit so it is ready for next time.

Get the printable version

The Winter Storm & Power Outage Planner (10 pages, Letter and A4) has a family emergency plan, contact sheet, home supply checklist, power outage plan, car winter kit, medical needs page and a storm-day log.

Related template: Winter Storm & Power Outage Planner. Also see: Car Maintenance & Vehicle Expense Log

See all Cedar & Ledger templates