Quick Answer
To prepare your home for severe weather, secure outdoor items, inspect your roof, test safety devices, protect windows, and create an emergency kit. These simple steps help reduce damage and keep your family safe during storms.
Essential Severe Weather Prep Checklist
1. Secure Outdoor Items
Bring in patio furniture, grills, umbrellas, and loose objects that could become dangerous projectiles in high winds.
2. Inspect Your Roof and Gutters
Check for loose shingles, clogged gutters, and damaged flashing. Proper drainage prevents water from backing up into your home.
3. Protect Windows and Doors
Close shutters, lock windows, and reinforce weak points. For major storms, consider temporary plywood protection.
4. Test Safety Devices
Ensure smoke alarms, carbon monoxide detectors, and flashlights are working with fresh batteries.
5. Prepare for Power Outages
Charge devices, stock up on batteries, and keep a portable power bank ready. If you have a generator, test it safely outdoors.
6. Create an Emergency Kit
Include water, non-perishable food, medications, flashlights, blankets, and a first-aid kit.
7. Protect Important Documents
Store insurance papers, IDs, and financial documents in a waterproof container or digital backup.
When to Take Extra Precautions
If severe weather is imminent—such as tornadoes, hurricanes, or hailstorms—move vehicles into a garage, stay away from windows, and follow local emergency alerts.