01/22/2026
Winter storm this weekend. A friend shared this information and I’d like to do the same. Stay safe
BEFORE THE WINTER STORM 🥶 (24–48 HOURS AHEAD)
❄️1. Charge all phones, power banks, tablets, and rechargeable flashlights.
❄️2. Fill up vehicle gas tanks in case gas stations lose power.
❄️3. Withdraw cash in small bills in case card payment systems go down.
❄️4. Refill prescription medications and essential medicines ahead of time.
❄️5. Download movies, books, and maps for offline use.
❄️6. Identify a warm room in the house to “camp out” in if the power goes out.
❄️7. Locate the main water shut-off valve and the breaker panel now (not later).
❄️8. Set the refrigerator and freezer to colder temperatures to help retain cold longer.
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WATER AND PIPE PROTECTION
❄️9. Let faucets drip slightly on exterior walls when temperatures drop below freezing.
❄️10. Open cabinet doors under sinks to allow warm air to circulate.
❄️11. Disconnect garden hoses from outdoor faucets.
❄️12. Cover outdoor faucets with insulated covers or towels.
❄️13. Learn how to quickly shut off the water supply if a pipe bursts.
❄️14. Fill water jugs, buckets, or the bathtub with water for toilet use and cleaning.
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FOOD AND KITCHEN PREP
❄️15. Have 3–5 days of no-cook food: peanut butter, tuna, bread, crackers, canned meats, fruit cups.
❄️16. Keep a manual can opener available.
❄️17. Buy shelf-stable milk or powdered milk if needed.
❄️18. Freeze some water bottles to use as “ice packs” in the freezer.
❄️19. Have a cooler ready to move food from the fridge if the power goes out and outdoor temps are below freezing.
❄️20. Avoid buying large amounts of perishable food right before the storm.
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HEAT AND HOME SAFETY
❄️21. Gather extra blankets, sleeping bags, and thermal clothing.
❄️22. If you use a fireplace, make sure it’s clean and have dry firewood.
❄️23. Never use generators or grills inside the home or garage.
❄️24. Check smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
❄️25. Have at least one flashlight per person and extra batteries.
❄️26. Use battery-powered lamps instead of candles when possible.
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VEHICLES AND TRAVEL
❄️27. Plan not to drive once freezing rain begins.
❄️28. Bridges, overpasses, and shaded roads freeze first.
❄️29. Keep in your car: a blanket, water, snacks, phone charger, and gloves.
❄️30. Replace old windshield wipers and refill windshield washer fluid.
❄️31. Park away from large tree branches when possible.
❄️32. Assume flights and travel may be disrupted for several days.
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POWER OUTAGE PLAN
❄️33. Unplug sensitive electronics to prevent damage from power surges.
❄️34. Have a battery-powered radio or weather app for updates.
❄️35. Use surge protectors for TVs and computers.
❄️36. Know where warming centers are located in your county/parish.
❄️37. Have extension cords ready if using an outdoor generator.
❄️38. Keep the refrigerator closed to preserve cold temperatures.
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PETS AND ANIMALS
❄️39. Bring pets indoors with enough food and water.
❄️40. Provide unfrozen water to outdoor animals.
❄️41. Add straw or blankets to outdoor shelters.
❄️42. Keep leashes and carriers accessible in case of evacuation.
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HEALTH AND SPECIAL NEEDS
❄️43. Keep a written list of medications and dosages.
❄️44. Store a first-aid kit with a thermometer and basic medications.
❄️45. Have backup batteries for medical equipment.
❄️46. Identify a location with electricity you could go to if necessary.
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PROPERTY PROTECTION
❄️47. Move vehicles away from trees or power lines.
❄️48. Secure outdoor furniture and lightweight objects.
❄️49. Avoid trimming trees during the storm—do it beforehand.
❄️50. Take photos of your property for insurance before conditions worsen.
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DURING THE STORM
❄️51. Do not drive unless absolutely necessary.
❄️52. Assume downed power lines are live and dangerous.
❄️53. Use only safe indoor heating methods.
❄️54. Call to check on neighbors, especially elderly individuals.
❄️55. Report outages to power companies, not 911 unless it’s an emergency.
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AFTER THE STORM
❄️56. Walk carefully: ice can refreeze overnight.
❄️57. Check pipes for leaks as temperatures rise.
❄️58. Discard refrigerated food if it was above 40°F (4°C) for more than 4 hours.
❄️59. Avoid DIY electrical repairs near downed power lines.
❄️60. Be patient: restoring power after ice storms can take several days.
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