With a major winter storm approaching Maryland, preparation is key. This checklist is designed to help you protect your home, your family, and your peace of mind before, during, and after the storm.
❄️ BEFORE THE STORM (24–48 HOURS AHEAD)
- Charge all phones, power banks, tablets, and rechargeable lanterns
- Fill vehicle gas tanks in case stations lose power
- Get cash in small bills if card systems go down
- Pick up prescriptions and essential medications early
- Download movies, books, and maps for offline use
- Identify one warm room in the house to “camp out” if power fails
- Locate your water shut-off valve and breaker box now
- Set fridge and freezer to colder settings to hold temperature longer
❄️ WATER & PIPE PROTECTION
- Drip faucets on exterior walls when temps drop below freezing
- Open cabinet doors under sinks to allow warm air circulation
- Disconnect garden hoses from outdoor spigots
- Cover outdoor faucets with insulated caps or towels
- Know how to shut off water quickly if a pipe bursts
- Fill jugs, buckets, or a bathtub with water for flushing and washing
❄️ FOOD & KITCHEN PREP
- Keep 3–5 days of no-cook food (peanut butter, tuna, crackers, canned foods, fruit cups)
- Have a manual can opener available
- Buy shelf-stable or powdered milk if needed
- Freeze water bottles to use as freezer “ice packs”
- Keep a cooler ready if you need to move food
- Avoid stocking large amounts of perishables right before the storm
Power outage tip:
If outdoor temperatures stay below 40°F, store sealed food items in coolers or storage totes on a porch, deck, or garage to help keep food fresh longer.
❄️ HEAT & HOME SAFETY
- Gather extra blankets, sleeping bags, and warm layers
- If using a fireplace, confirm the chimney is clear and wood is dry
- Never run generators or grills inside homes or garages
- Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
- Have at least one flashlight per person plus spare batteries
- Use battery-powered lanterns instead of candles when possible
❄️ VEHICLE & TRAVEL
- Avoid driving once freezing rain or snow begins
- Bridges, overpasses, and shaded roads freeze first
- Keep emergency supplies in your car (blanket, water, snacks, phone charger, gloves)
- Replace old wiper blades and top off washer fluid
- Park away from large tree limbs when possible
- Expect travel delays or cancellations
❄️ POWER OUTAGE PLAN
- Unplug sensitive electronics to prevent surge damage
- Keep a battery radio or weather app for updates
- Use surge protectors for TVs and computers
- Know where local warming centers may be located
- Keep extension cords ready if using a generator outdoors
- Keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed as much as possible
❄️ PETS & LIVESTOCK
- Bring pets indoors with extra food and water
- Provide outdoor animals with unfrozen water
- Add straw or blankets to outdoor shelters
- Keep leashes and carriers accessible in case of evacuation
❄️ MEDICAL & SPECIAL NEEDS
- Keep a written list of medications and dosages
- Have a small first-aid kit ready
- Stock backup batteries for medical devices
- Identify a place with power you could relocate to if needed
❄️ PROPERTY PROTECTION
- Move vehicles away from trees or power lines
- Secure outdoor furniture and lightweight items
- Avoid trimming trees during the storm—do it beforehand
- Take photos of your property for insurance before conditions worsen
❄️ DURING THE STORM
- Avoid driving unless absolutely necessary
- Treat all downed power lines as live
- Use only safe indoor heating methods
- Check on elderly neighbors by phone if possible
- Report outages to utility companies (not 911 unless it’s an emergency)
❄️ AFTER THE STORM
- Walk carefully—ice may refreeze overnight
- Check pipes for leaks as temperatures rise
- Discard refrigerated food if above 40°F for more than 4 hours
- Avoid DIY electrical repairs near downed lines
- Be patient—restoring power after ice storms can take time
Be Safe out there and go play in the snow a little!
👷♂️ Home Inspector Credit & Recommendation
This checklist was provided by Sergio Barajas, Owner/Operator of Always Welcome, Home Inspections LLC.
If you ever need a trusted home inspector—whether you’re buying, selling, or simply want peace of mind—Sergio is a great local resource.
Sergio Barajas
📞 Cell: (410) 671-5743
📧 Email: Sergio@aw-hi.com
🌐 Website: www.AW-HI.com
📄 Services: AW-HI Services Brochure
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