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Winter storms have a way of arriving faster than expected — While we don’t get frequent winter weather here in the south, when we do -it can get bad. Think ice, downed trees due to the weight of the ice and power outages. Being prepared ahead of time can make all the difference.
Whether you’re facing snow, ice, power outages, or freezing temperatures, having a simple plan in place helps protect your home, your family, and your peace of mind.
I put together a one-page Winter Storm Prep Checklist that I follow to make getting ready easy and stress-free. (*Always check for any special preparatory steps specific to your area.)
Why Winter Storm Preparation Matters
When severe winter weather hits, everyday tasks can quickly become difficult — or unsafe. Power outages, frozen pipes, road closures, and supply shortages are all common during winter storms.
A little preparation ahead of time can help you:
- Avoid last-minute store runs
- Keep your home warm and safe
- Protect your plumbing and appliances
- Stay comfortable during power outages
- Feel confident instead of rushed
This printable checklist walks you through the items you should prepare before a winter storm arrives, including:
- Essential food and water supplies
- Power and lighting needs
- Ways to keep your home warm
- Simple steps to protect pipes and utilities
- Vehicle and emergency prep
- Last-minute tasks to do before the storm
- Important safety reminders
I have a list of my go to essentials I like to keep on hand HERE.
You can download the checklist below and keep it handy throughout the season.
👉 Download the Winter Storm Prep Checklist (Printable PDF)
🧺 ESSENTIAL SUPPLIES TO HAVE ON HAND
Aim for at least 3 days per person (longer if possible):
Food & Water
- Bottled water (1 gallon per person, per day)
- Shelf-stable meals (soups, chili, pasta, rice, canned veggies)
- Easy no-cook foods (protein bars, peanut butter, crackers)
- Manual can opener
- Baby food / pet food (if applicable)
Power & Light
- Flashlights (one per room is ideal)
- Extra batteries
- Battery-powered or hand-crank radio
- Fully charged power banks
- Extension cords
Warmth
- Extra blankets & throws
- Warm socks, gloves, hats
- Sleeping bags (great for power outages)
- Space heaters (only if safe + rated for indoor use)
Health & Safety
- First-aid kit
- Prescription meds (at least a week extra)
- Pain relievers, fever reducers
- Hand sanitizer & disinfecting wipes
🏠 THINGS TO DO AROUND THE HOUSE
Before the storm arrives:
- Set thermostat slightly higher than normal (prevents pipe freezing)
- Open cabinet doors under sinks (lets warm air circulate)
- Insulate exposed pipes or hose bibs
- Fill your bathtub with water so you can still flush your toilets (in case water pipes freeze)
- Know where your main water shutoff is and how to turn it off if needed
- Bring outdoor furniture, planters, and décor inside
- Check smoke & carbon monoxide detector batteries
- Stock fireplace wood or propane if applicable
- Close curtains at night to retain heat
VEHICLE PREP (EVEN IF YOU DON’T PLAN TO DRIVE)
- Fill up gas tank
- Check tire pressure and tread
- Top off windshield washer fluid (winter-rated)
- Keep an emergency car kit:
- Blanket
- Ice scraper
- Jumper cables
- Flashlight
- Snacks & water
POWER & TECH PREP
- Fully charge phones, tablets, laptops
- Download offline maps and weather apps
- Save emergency contacts on paper
- Set refrigerator/freezer to coldest setting (keeps tood longer)
OUTDOOR & UTILITY CHECKS
- Disconnect garden hoses
- Shut off exterior water valves if possible
- Know where your main water shutoff is
- Check generator (fuel + safe placement)
- Move cars away from trees if heavy ice is expected
THE DAY BEFORE/DAY OF STORM
- Do laundry and dishes
- Shower (hot water may be limited later)
- Cook or prep meals ahead of time
- Bring pets indoors
- Park vehicles in the safest location
- Stay off roads unless necessary
SAFETY REMINDERS
- Never use grills or generators indoors
- Keep space heaters 3+ feet from anything flammable
- Check on elderly neighbors or family
- Follow local weather alerts and advisories
Food Items I like to have on hand for storm prep:
- bottled water (1 gallon per person and/or pet is recommended)
- individually packaged drinks (ie. juice boxes, bottled water)
- cereals, crackers, cookies, snacks
- canned soups, puddings, meats, vegetables (make sure to have a manual can opener)
- peanut butter and jelly, bread
- dried fruit and nuts
- instant coffee/tea
- powdered or shelf stable milk
- sugar, powdered creamer, salt and pepper
- pet food
- baby food/formula
Winter storms can be unpredictable, but preparation doesn’t have to be complicated. Having a clear checklist in place helps ensure nothing gets overlooked — even during busy or stressful moments.
Stay warm, stay safe, and feel free to share this printable with friends or family who might find it helpful this winter.
