What To Check Before A Storm Weekend
A simple storm checklist for water, lights, charging, food, drains, loose yard items, and family communication.
SHTF Preparedness · 4 min read
Start Outside
Storm prep starts before rain hits the glass. Walk the outside of your home. Look for loose chairs, bins, tools, toys, and branches. Anything light can move in wind.
Clear drains if you can do it safely from the ground. Move items away from low doors and basement windows. Check that gates latch.
Do not climb a wet roof or ladder because a storm is close. That is how a simple chore becomes an injury.
Fill The Gaps
Storm weekends can close roads and stores. You do not need a cart full of panic buys. You need the gaps filled.
Check these:
- Drinking water
- Flashlights
- Batteries
- Phone power banks
- Easy food
- Pet food
- Medicines
- Trash bags
Buy what is missing. Skip what you already have.
Charge Early
Charge phones, power banks, radios, and rechargeable lights before bed. Do it early, not when the weather alert starts.
Put all charging gear in one spot. Add a pen and paper. If internet goes down, paper still works.
Download offline maps if roads may flood. Write down one safe place to meet if your household gets split up.
Watch Water
If flooding is possible, move important items higher. Documents, photos, chargers, and medicines should not sit on basement floors.
Know where your water shutoff is. Know where the main breaker is. Do not step into standing water near outlets or panels.
What To Do Today
Spend ten minutes walking your yard. Bring in or tie down five loose items.
That small chore can save a window, a fence, or a neighbor’s car.