Getting ready for winter storms: 7 clever ways to get your home ready for severe weather

With December here, thoughts turn to winter storms. Even in regions accustomed to severe weather, snowstorms and icy conditions can create major challenges, especially if your power goes out. The key to staying safe and comfortable is having a solid plan and the right emergency supplies.

Experts from the American Red Cross and Frontdoor, a platform connecting homeowners with skilled tradespeople, recommend these practical steps to keep your home secure, warm, and well-equipped.

Understand Winter Storm Alerts

Familiarize yourself with common alerts so you know when immediate action is required:

• Winter storm warning: Dangerous winter weather is occurring or expected within 24 hours.
• Blizzard warning: High winds of 35 mph or more and heavy snowfall reduce visibility to less than a quarter mile for at least three hours.

Assemble Emergency Kits

Stephanie Fox from the Red Cross advises having:

• An at-home kit sufficient for two weeks.
• A portable go-kit for three days of essential needs.

Include first-aid items, copies of important documents, flashlights, batteries, device chargers, a hand-crank or battery-powered radio, cash, snacks, and water (minimum one gallon per person per day). Add medications, pet supplies, blankets, warm clothing, high-calorie snacks, hand warmers, and a bright red cloth for signaling if stranded.

Essential Emergency Gear

• First Aid Only All-Purpose Kit: Compact and comprehensive, includes 299 first-aid essentials.
• High-Powered Flashlights: Durable, water-resistant, military-grade options with long battery life.
• Anker Nano 3-in-1 Charger: Portable, fast-charging power bank for phones and small devices.
• AM/FM Weather Radio: Features SOS flashlight, dog whistle, and solar/hand-crank power options.
• Brawntide Outdoor Blanket: Waterproof, extra-thick fleece for warmth and emergency use.
• Hand Warmers: Single-use packs providing up to 10 hours of heat.

Seal Drafts and Insulate

Frontdoor expert William James recommends checking for drafts around doors, windows, and basement or garage access points. Use weather stripping, door sweeps, and window insulation kits to reduce heat loss. Key products include:

• Frost King Polyethylene Window Film: Shrink-wrap kit reducing heat loss by 35% without obstructing views.
• Frost King Door Weather Strip: Foam-and-cloth barrier for doors or windows.
• DAP Dynaflex Sealant: Indoor/outdoor caulk for gaps and cracks.

Protect Pipes and Outdoor Faucets

Wrap exposed piping with foam insulation or pipe sleeves, including in garages, basements, attics, and crawlspaces. Cover outdoor faucets and drain hoses to prevent freezing. Recommended items:

• Duck Brand Insulating Foam Pipe Covers: Simple slip-on insulation sleeves.
• Duck Brand Faucet Covers: Waterproof fabric keeps moisture off spigots to prevent frozen pipes.

Maintain Exterior Safety

Clear debris from downspouts and drains to prevent ice buildup. Use protective gloves when handling winter cleanup tasks. Durable work gloves like Wells Lamont leather gloves with Thinsulate liners keep hands warm and protected.

Safe Heating Solutions

For backup warmth, space heaters should be placed at least three feet from combustibles and never left unattended. Avoid candles and ovens for heat. Recommended options include:

• Vesta Self-Powered Heater & Stove: Compact indoor heater using chafing fuel safely.

Snow Removal and De-Icing

Keep snow shovels and ice melt accessible. Begin clearing snow when safe and spread ice melt to prevent slippery surfaces. Environmentally friendly ice melts are available to protect pets and plants. For larger areas, consider a snow blower.

Backup Power Solutions

Generators and portable power stations prevent outages from turning into emergencies. Follow these tips for safe usage:

• Keep flashlights nearby to check electrical panels.
• Reset tripped breakers if needed.
• Unplug sensitive electronics during widespread outages.

Recommended products:

• Jackery Portable Power Station Explorer 2000 Plus: High-capacity power for small appliances and electronics.
• Generac Generators: Quiet, reliable gas-powered options for whole-house backup.

By preparing kits, sealing your home, protecting pipes, maintaining heating, clearing snow safely, and ensuring backup power, you can face winter storms with confidence and comfort.

Author's Commentary: Preparing for Winter Storms

As winter sets in, the challenges of snow, ice, and power outages are immediate and unavoidable. Experts emphasize that preparation is not optional—it is essential for safety and comfort. Familiarity with storm alerts, assembling emergency kits, and having reliable heating and power sources are critical steps that every household should prioritize.

Practical measures like sealing drafts, insulating pipes, and clearing debris from gutters directly reduce risks of property damage and hypothermia. Recommended products—from high-powered flashlights and first-aid kits to portable heaters and power stations—offer concrete solutions for maintaining safety during severe weather.

Ultimately, winter readiness combines awareness, planning, and the right tools. Households that follow these guidelines not only protect themselves but also reduce the burden on emergency services, making preparedness a shared responsibility as much as an individual one.

Sources:

• Winter storm prep: 7 genius ways to prepare your home for extreme weather