Storm Prep Checklist

All too often, a last-minute scramble to get out of harm’s way means that you’ve left important papers and documents behind, or worse, that they are damaged during a storm. Set aside time in advance to gather and store your important papers and documents in a safe place or container that’s waterproof, easy to find and accessible. This includes photographs, passports, government documents, banking information, credit card numbers, prescriptions, insurance information and more. Even better, digitize your papers and documents so that they can be accessed online from anywhere.

Roof damage is common in storms, so having plastic sheeting and tarps on hand can be the difference between minor and major damage. Invest in tie-downs, rope, bungie cords and a ladder to make the process easier. These items run out after a storm, so purchase in advance and store them together in a place that’s easy to access them when needed.

When the power goes out, food spoils, then there’s no hot water and no access to air circulation (fans), or even a way to charge your cell phone or electric flashlight. A generator helps you avoid these inconveniences and keeps your family comfortable.

There are several different types, including solar and battery generators. However, the most common types are inverter, portable and home standby generators.

An inverter generator:

• Is safe for sensitive equipment
• Is portable
• Is automatic
• Has a 900-6,500 watts range
• Has a 700-5,000 running watts range
• Has an 8.5 run time at 50 percent lead (hours)

A portable generator:

• Is portable
• Has a 900-20,000 watts range
• Has a 800-17,500 running watts range
• Has a 9 run time at 50 percent lead (hours)

A home standby generator:

• Is safe for sensitive equipment
• Is automatic
• Has a 7,500-24,000 watts range
• Has a 6,000-22,500 running watts range
• Has an unlimited run time at 50 percent lead (hours)

Don’t forget to have the appropriate fuel and oil on hand for your generator. Fill propane tanks and gas cans as needed.

Sheltering in place after a storm means limited access to food. Stock up on canned and dry foods that you can eat straight from the package or that can be made with little effort, such as pasta, rice and sandwiches. Also make sure you have food on hand for pets. And in a fully automated world, grab a manual can opener the next time you’re out, so that you can open food items without electricity.

A grill is a lifesaver when the power goes out, especially if it stays out for several days. Check your gas or charcoal grill to ensure that it’s operable and stock up on fuel as needed. Matches, lighter sticks, fuel, outdoor cookers and cooking oil are other items that are helpful to have on hand.

You’ll need water in the aftermath of a storm. Bottled water and refillable water jugs should be at the top of your list. Ice chests and coolers also help to store water, ice and perishable items for short amounts of time.

Battery-operated flashlights, radios, alarm clocks and lanterns are handy during power outages—but only if you have fresh batteries on hand. Doublecheck these items when prepping for a storm.

After a storm, it’s not uncommon for one half of a neighborhood to have power and the other half to not. In situations like these, it’s helpful to have heavy-duty outdoor extension cords available for use.

Car adapters and power inverters can recharge everything from your phone to your laptop. There are several kinds to choose from. Just be sure to check the wattage restrictions before plugging in any electronics.

Water damage is expensive, so the sooner you can get rid of standing water in and around your home, the better. A large wet/dry vacuum sucks up water and damaged items such as insulation, wood shavings, garbage and pieces of carpet. A sump pump moves water from low-lying areas in your home such as basements and crawl spaces. Fans will help dry wet areas and circulate air. Finally, installing gutters and downspouts directs water away from your home during a storm.