Cold Weather
Preparedness
Guide
Discover eective ways to
help protect your home during
winter power outages.
Planning for Cold Weather
and Winter Storms
Some of the most severe power outages in recent years can be attributed to cold
weather and winter storms. Taking control with a preparedness plan can make a
dierence when severe weather strikes.
For more than 60 years, Generac has been a leader in manufacturing backup
power solutions. We are proud to have helped millions of customers prepare
for unexpected outages with our residential, commercial, industrial, and
mobile power solutions.
Stay Up to Date on Power Outages with Generac’s Power Outage Central
It provides a state-by-state overview of current power outage activity.
https://www.generac.com/outages
Cold Weather Preparedness Guide | 2
Emergency Resources - Contact Information 4
Cold Weather 101
5
Terms to Know
7
Preparation & Action
8
Before the Storm 9
During the Storm 10
After the Storm 12
Safety Tips
13
Pet Safety
14
Comparing Backup Power Options
15
Alternative Backup Power Solutions
16
Monitoring Fuel Levels
17-18
Generator Safety
19
Common Myths About Portable Generators
20
Important Printable Documents
Emergency Kit Checklist 21
Family Contact Information 22
Family Medication Form 23
Home Inventory 24
Table of Contents
Cold Weather Preparedness Guide | 3
Emergency Resources
When the power goes out, life becomes signicantly more dicult. Backup
power, whether portable, home standby or a solar + battery storage system,
oers a layer of security and protection. As backup power experts, Generac aims
to provide peace of mind and condence in your backup power supply when
the power is out or unreliable. With the aging power infrastructure and growing
intensity of severe weather, including cold weather, outages are more likely.
Generac works to give every person and family the information needed to help
protect themselves and their homes when life gets disrupted by power outages.
DURING WINTER
Keep the following contacts handy
in case of an emergency:
FEMA
www.fema.gov
800-621-3362
Food Safety
www.fsis.usda.gov
888-674-6854
CDC Emergency Preparedness & Response
https://emergency.cdc.gov
800-232-4636
We are committed to providing you with customer and technical support to
ensure peace of mind and dependable service for your Generac products.
Contact us 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
Call us at 888-GENERAC (888-436-3722) or go online
www.generac.com/service-support
In an emergency, call 911 for assistance.
Cold Weather Preparedness Guide | 4
Cold Temperatures
Low temperatures are a key characteristic of
winter weather, with signicant potential to impact
health and safety. Even if there is no snow or ice,
cold temperatures can pose a threat to anyone
who must go outside or whose home is unheated
due to power loss or other factors. People who are
outside in cold temperatures for too long are at
risk of hypothermia or frostbite, which can cause
loss of body heat, tissue damage, or more severe
outcomes. Cold temperatures can also increase
the likelihood of pipes freezing and bursting inside
homes and causing ooding.
Dierent regions of the country have varying
denitions of extreme cold. Generally, states in the
northern half of the United States are more likely
to classify temperatures below 0° Fahrenheit as
extreme cold, while states in the southern half of
the country may dene any temperature near the
32° Fahrenheit freezing point as extreme cold.
However, other cold weather factors like snow
and ice can create severe conditions even if the
temperature is not categorized as extreme.
Understanding the denition of extreme cold
in distinct regions can help you know how
to best prepare.
Wind chill is another important factor related
to cold temperatures, referring to how cold the
outdoor air temperature feels to people and
animals. When paired with wind, cold
temperatures can result in a wind chill that is
signicantly lower than the temperature itself.
Wind chill is important because it represents
how exposed skin may react when faced with
cold temperatures and wind, and the likelihood
of experiencing frostbite may increase when
exposed to low wind chill values.
Snow
Snow is an inuential cold weather element,
causing potentially dangerous situations in varied
climates. Snowstorms can range from a few hours
to a few days and bring a few inches to a few feet
of snow to an area. Even for people living in regions
that are accustomed to snowstorms, a large
snowfall can have a considerable impact. Blowing
snow can limit visibility, and heavy snow can make
transit of any kind dicult, frequently limiting
vehicular travel and preventing people from
accessing much-needed supplies or support.
Heavy snow may accumulate on power lines and
tree branches, causing them to snap and cut o
electricity to homes. Sometimes snow can limit
communication services and make it more dicult
to stay connected. Snow may also pile up around
doors, windows, and exterior features of homes,
limiting access in and out of the home.
Snowfall has occurred in all fty states,
indicating that the potential to be aected by
snow is not limited to a specic region. However,
people who live in states with historically higher
temperatures and lower snowfall may need to take
extra precautions when facing a snowstorm, as
infrastructure and buildings may be less equipped
to handle heavy snowfall.
Cold Weather 101
Cold weather can include a variety of severe conditions and aect people in every region of the United
States. Each extreme weather event presents unique challenges and requires advance preparation.
Cold Weather Preparedness Guide | 5
Much like snow, ice accumulation can cause
dangerous travel conditions and potential loss of
power. Ice storms are frequently caused by
freezing rain, which occurs when a warmer layer
of air in the earth’s atmosphere produces rain.
That rain falls to the earth into a cold layer of
air, where it freezes upon hitting the ground
and other surfaces. This creates a slick layer of
ice that will remain slippery until the temperature
increases or the surface is treated.
Given the weight of accumulated ice, ice storms
can snap power lines, bring down trees, and cause
ongoing power outages. Fallen trees during
ice storms may block roads and cut o key
transportation avenues, and they may also drag down
utility lines that provide electricity, internet, or phone
service. Ice storms also make roads dangerous to
travel. Bridges and overpasses become particularly
hazardous during ice storms, as they freeze before
the rest of the road - so drivers may not initially
realize they are encountering a slick road. Ice storms
can threaten safety both at home and on the road.
Ice
Blizzard Warning: Issued for frequent
wind gusts of 35 mph or greater that are
accompanied by falling and/or blowing
snow, often reducing visibility to less than
a quarter mile for three or more hours.
Freezing Rain: Rain that freezes when it
hits the ground, creating a coating of ice on
roads, walkways, trees, and power lines.
Ice Storm Warning: Issued for expected
ice accumulation of a quarter inch or more,
which will make travel dangerous and could
result in snapped power lines.
Lake Eect Snow Warning: Issued
when lake induced snow squalls or
heavy showers are expected to result in
signicant snowfall accumulation.
NOAA: National Oceanic and
Atmospheric Association, an agency
within the Department of Commerce that
works to understand and predict changes
in climate, weather, and oceans. The
National Weather Service (NWS) is
a branch under NOAA.
Sleet: Rain that turns to ice pellets before
reaching the ground, causing moisture on
roads to freeze and become slippery.
Wind Chill: A measure of how cold people
feel due to the combined eect of wind and
cold temperatures.
Wind Chill Warning: Issued when a
combination of extremely cold air and
strong winds are expected to create
dangerously low wind chills, which
could result in frostbite or hypothermia.
Wind Chill Watch: Issued when there
is the potential for a combination of
extremely cold air and strong winds to
create dangerously low wind chill values.
Winter Storm Warning: Issued when a
winter storm is expected to produce heavy
snow, sleet or ice. Take action to navigate
the storm safely.
Winter Storm Watch: Issued when
a winter storm could produce heavy
snow, sleet or ice. Prepare to encounter
winter conditions.
Winter Weather Advisory: Issued when
light amounts of winter precipitation
or blowing snow could cause slippery
conditions and impact travel. Proceed
with caution.
Terms to Know
To properly prepare for cold weather and its impact, it is important to understand the
terms used by meteorologists. Below is a list of commonly used terminology:
Source: https://www.weather.gov/safety/winter-ww
Cold Weather Preparedness Guide | 7
The best time to take charge of your storm response is well before the storm hits.
Start Now
• Identify your nearest warming centers, when they will open and, if applicable, which ones allow pets.
• If you use a replace or wood stove for heating, make sure to have your chimney or ue inspected
annually ahead of cold weather.
• Build an emergency kit. See a list of recommended items to include at the end of this guide.
• Gather local area maps in the event that mobile devices lack service or electricity.
• Compile contact information for relevant family members and keep it handy in a wallet or purse.
Create a communication plan in case of an outage.
• It is possible some of your possessions may be broken, destroyed, or lost if your home is damaged
due to impacts of cold weather, like bursting pipes or fallen tree branches. Your insurance claim can
be made much easier if you make a list and photograph your most expensive items.
• Prioritize taking photos of high-priced items such as jewelry, collectibles, electronics, power
tools, lawn mowers, etc. Show the items closeup and where they are in the home (for example,
in a dresser in your bedroom). In each photo, include a piece of paper with today’s date and the
value of the item. Take photos of receipts if available.
• Be sure to account for possessions both inside and outside of your home and talk with your
insurer ahead of time to understand the claims ling process and how these photos can best
be used. That way, if you should need to le a claim, it will be easier. You can nd an easy
printable form to list your household inventory at the end of this guide.
• Photograph important legal paperwork such as wills and proof of insurance.
Preparation & Action
How Long do I Have to Prepare?
When a Winter Storm Watch is issued: Winter storm conditions are possible at your location
within 48 hours or less. Although a watch does not guarantee your location will be aected,
it’s still best to prepare to take action. If there are any last-minute supplies needed to prepare
your home or assemble your emergency kit, get them now. Lines may already be long and
supplies running short.
When a Winter Storm Warning is issued: Winter storm conditions are occurring or about
to occur. Finish preparing and remain o the roads and indoors as much as possible.
When a Blizzard Warning is issued: Blizzard conditions are occurring or expected in the next 12
to 18 hours. Preparations will begin to get dicult due to increased wind and lines for supplies.
Cold Weather Preparedness Guide | 8
• Bring pets indoors.
• Turn your refrigerator and freezer to the coldest setting.
• Fill bathtubs and large containers with water for sanitation purposes.
• Turn o and properly secure propane tanks.
• Unplug small appliances in the rooms you do not plan to use during a storm.
• Check the yard and landscaping for any trees that should be trimmed.
• Fill gas cans to run a portable generator.
• Charge cell phones.
• If you are going away during a cold weather event, be sure to leave the
heat on in your home and set to at least 55°F.
• Make sure you know how to shut o water valves in your home if a pipe bursts. Consider whether
you should allow faucets to drip or trickle during cold weather to prevent freezing.
Relying on a standby generator when the power goes out?
Make sure it’s ready ahead of the cold weather season.
• Clear debris and any obstructions away from the generator.
• Keep at least 3 ft. of clearance around the generator.
• This also includes moving plants and decorations away from the generator.
• Ensure the inside of the enclosure is free of debris (such as leaves, sticks, dirt, etc.)
• Check your battery for proper charge and clean any corrosion on the terminals.
• Check the air lter. If it’s dirty or damaged, replace it.
• Inspect lines and connections for fuel or oil leaks. Fix, as necessary.
• Check spark plugs. If gap is out of tolerance, re-gap or replace.
• Check sediment trap. Empty if necessary.
• Watch out for low oil levels If your generator is running continuously. Remember to
check the oil level each day and keep extra oil on hand.
Before the Storm
Cold Weather Preparedness Guide | 9
Sheltering in Place
• Stay inside and limit your time outdoors.
• Monitor updates with a radio or television. Have a battery-powered
emergency radio, in case of power outage.
• Save cell phone battery as much as possible in case the power goes out.
• If power is lost, unplug all outlets to reduce the chance of damage due to a
power surge when power returns.
• If using a portable generator for backup power, have a plan for safely starting your generator.
• If ooding occurs due to pipes bursting, turn o electricity.
• Evacuate if the home is damaged or an emergency ocial gives the order.
• Go to a neighbor’s home or follow the emergency ocial’s directions.
Never use a generator inside the home or garage, even if doors and windows are open.
Carbon monoxide is odorless and colorless and can kill in minutes. Only use a portable
generator outside and far away from windows, doors, and vents
Staying Warm
During a winter storm, keeping warm is a top priority. If your home loses heat, take action to
maintain as much warmth indoors as you can.
• Remain inside as much as possible and minimize opening doors and windows except when necessary.
• Shut the doors to unneeded rooms, using just the most essential areas.
• Line the cracks under the doors with towels or other fabric to reduce cold air ow.
• Cover windows at night to keep out cold air and drafts.
• Dress in loose, light layers that can be easily removed. Sweating and overheating can ultimately
lead to chills, so monitor your exertion and reduce layers appropriately.
• Stay hydrated and be sure to eat, as proper nourishment helps the body generate its own heat.
• When using a heat source like a space heater, replace, or wood stove, be sure to keep blankets
and other items away from the heater and ensure proper ventilation.
During the Storm
Cold Weather Preparedness Guide | 10
If you must go outdoors during a winter storm, take extra precautions to stay safe.
• Walk carefully on walkways that may be coated in snow or ice. Even if you don’t see ice,
be aware that it may still be there causing slick conditions.
• Avoid overexertion, as sweating can cause a chill and hypothermia.
• Know and monitor for signs of hypothermia, including shivering and confusion
• Be aware of the signs of frostbite, including pale, cold skin that may be numb or tingle,
painful or even burn.
• Drive only if absolutely necessary and only during daylight hours. Have an emergency
kit in your vehicle that includes rock salt, sand, shovels, and blankets.
• Change out of any wet clothes as soon as possible to keep your body
insulated and to maintain body heat.
Outdoor Safety
Cold Weather Preparedness Guide | 11
• If there is severe damage to the home, leave immediately and contact local ocials.
• If you suspect a gas leak, leave immediately and report it to local authorities.
• Go to a designated public shelter if your home is without power or heat during extreme cold.
• Report downed power lines to the utility company and local police and re departments.
• Carefully clear snow from around any propane tanks, taking care not to puncture the tank or line.
• Check on neighbors.
• Report losses to insurance.
• Make a list of any missing or damaged property.
• Take photos of the home, yard, and street.
• Do not drive down closed roads – they may have downed power lines or trees.
• Consider contacting contractors to clean up large debris, like fallen branches.
• Keep receipts for possible reimbursement programs through insurance, city,
or U.S. government programs.
• If power is out, unplug all major appliances before turning the electricity
back on to minimize possible surge damage.
• If the home ooded due to pipes bursting, have a professional electrician
check the residence before turning electricity on.
• Save phone calls for emergencies. Phone systems are often down or busy
after a disaster. Use text messages or social media to communicate with family and friends.
Extended Power Outages
• Keep freezers and refrigerators closed.
• Only use portable generators outdoors and away from windows, doors, and vents.
• Do not use a gas stove to heat your home.
• Disconnect appliances and electronics to avoid damage from electrical surges when the power returns.
• Have alternate plans for refrigerating medicines or using power-dependent medical devices.
After the Storm
Food Safety
According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, food in your refrigerator is safe to eat for only four hours
without electricity. They recommend you discard meat, poultry, sh, eggs, and leftovers after that timeframe.
A full freezer, on the other hand, will hold a safe temperature for 48 hours, 24 hours if it is half full. These
times are only true if the appliance door remains closed. It is important to adhere to the following safety
guidelines during and after a power outage when there is no electricity.
• Don’t open your refrigerator if the power goes out.
• Use a thermometer to check if food is 40 degrees or below before consuming.
• Power your refrigerator: Consider backup options to power your refrigerator,
especially during long outages.
• In the event of an outage, do not plan to keep food cold outside in ice or snow,
as food could be exposed to varying temperatures and unsanitary outdoor conditions.
Live in an apartment and unable to have a home standby generator?
Portable Power Stations have zero emissions, are safe to use indoors,
and can power a 120W refrigerator for 7.5+ hours, depending on the model size.
Child Safety
Reducing a child’s fear during severe weather is important. Disasters can be traumatic for children.
It is important to provide guidance and reassurance to help ease their fears and stress.
Constant Communication
• Keep in constant communication with your children during a winter storm. Talk with them
about your plans and let them help gather supplies.
Child-Friendly Emergency Kit
• Be sure to include things like toys, games and items that don’t require power.
Safety Tips
Cold Weather Preparedness Guide | 13
The ASPCA estimates one third of cat and dog owners don’t have a disaster plan in place for their
animals. During cold weather events, pets are safest by your side at home. Bring pets inside before
winter weather hits, and make sure to plan for their comfort and safety in case the power goes out.
Emergency Kit for Pets
• 7 days of food and water (with a can opener, if needed)
• 1 week’s worth of medication
• Pet carrier/kennel
• Extra leash
• Pet ID tags, rabies vaccination tag and collar
• Spare bedding
Aquarium Tips
A power outage is inconvenient for you but can be deadly for aquarium sh. To maintain the delicate
balance in an aquarium, you need to keep your ltration system and heater running 24/7. Whether the
outage lasts for a few hours or a few days, there are several things you can do to minimize the damage:
• Unplug your lter and rinse it before restarting
• Maintain stable water temperature by covering the tank with a blanket
• Make up for lost oxygen with a battery-powered air pump
• Have a Generac generator to keep the power on
Pet Safety
Cold Weather Preparedness Guide | 14
Portable vs. Automatic Home Standby Power
You may be considering a portable generator for use during severe cold weather
events. While they can certainly be used to provide backup power, there
are some key dierences to be aware of compared to a home standby unit.
Protect Your Backup Solution
No matter what generator option you select, it is important to conduct regular maintenance on your
generator to ensure it runs properly. You can rest assured knowing that your local Generac dealer is
there to support and service your generator through the life of the product.
Comparing Backup Power Options
Portable Power
Stations
Portable
Generators
Automatic Home
Standby Generators
Uses
Clean, quiet, emission-free power with
no fumes or fuel; a great option for
apartments or condominium residents.
Additional non-emergency
uses: camping, tailgating.
Emergency backup power. Additional
non-emergency uses: camping, job
sites, tailgating.
Whole home or essential
circuit backup power.
Starting
A simple ON/OFF button.
Must be home when the power goes
out to start and connect almost all
portable generators.
Starts automatically when utility
power is lost – whether you’re
home or away.
Connecting
Ports on the unit itself oer
numerous connection options,
including 2 USB-A and 2 USB-C
receptacles in addition to AC, DC
and a wireless charging pad.
Can be connected to individual
appliances via extension cord
but must be connected to
the home via a manual transfer switch
for whole home/specic circuit
backup.
Permanently connected to
your home’s electrical system.
Refueling
No refueling necessary. Simply
recharge the unit by connecting to a
wall outlet when power returns. The
unit also supports recharging with the
available solar panels or connection to
a car or generator.
Must be refueled every 6-12 hours,
depending on loads and size of fuel
tank. Fueling options include gasoline
and liquid propane.
No refueling necessary if connected to
a natural gas line or propane tank.
Capacity
Able to power smaller, specic
devices, such as a kitchen appliance,
laptop, or phone. Can also be
paralleled for additional capacity and
backup power.
A wide range of options for every
need, including smaller units that can
be paralleled for additional power, or
units large enough to provide whole
home backup when paired with a
manual transfer switch.
Can power your entire home
or selected circuits.
Monitoring
With no refueling and zero
maintenance, no monitoring
is necessary.
Must monitor operation
in person.
Monitor the generator’s performance
with Mobile Link™ from anywhere.
Cold Weather Preparedness Guide | 15
PWRcell Solar Battery Storage System
Store Excess Energy
PWRcell’s revolutionary battery storage technology captures and stores energy from
your solar panels or the electrical grid.
Prepare for Power Outages
PWRcell can provide whole home backup power during utility power outages, helping you and
your family stay comfortable and secure in your home. Pairing your system with a PWRmanager
advanced load management device can extend your backup capabilities even further.
Reduce Energy Costs
The stored energy can be discharged to power your home during peak demand times
when the cost of utility power is higher, which can help you save money on your utility bill.
To learn more about PWRcell, visit: https://generac.com/pwrcell
Alternative Backup Power Solutions
Cold Weather Preparedness Guide | 16
Ensure you Have Enough Propane (LP Gas) to Weather the Storm
If your generator or household appliances run on propane, it is crucial to make sure you
and your propane supplier know when your fuel level is running low. Without propane,
your LP generator and LP appliances will not turn on.
Don’t Rely on Manual Tank Checks
If you are used to checking your propane tank’s dial to see the remaining fuel level, know
that this is not always possible – especially in severe weather. Consider a situation where:
• You or your family members aren’t at home when LP appliances are running,
or the generator turns on and starts burning fuel.
• The tank dial is physically dicult for you or your family members to access.
• Inclement weather makes it dangerous to walk out to the tank.
• The dial is inaccessible due to a stuck tank lid or ooding around an underground tank.
Don’t Wait Until the Last Minute to Schedule a Fuel Delivery
Cold weather events can cause delays for propane suppliers which interrupt the delivery schedule.
Oftentimes, downed trees block roads and driveways, supply chain issues cause fuel shortages,
and power outages lead to increased demand for LP gas to serve standby generators.
Monitoring Fuel Levels
Cold Weather Preparedness Guide | 17
Avoid the Hidden Costs of a Run Out
Storms increase the likelihood of running out of fuel. Run outs are frustrating, costly,
and likely to happen when you need your LP generator and LP appliances the most.
Consider what happens as the result of a run out:
• You may have to pay for a qualied technician to perform a leak test. Some jurisdictions
require this test after an out-of-gas call before propane/fuel delivery occurs.
• You may pay up to $300 for an expedited/emergency delivery fee to get your tank relled.
• You could have to pay to replace spoiled food in your refrigerator and freezer.
• You might even pay for a hotel stay if you are without electricity for an extended period.
• The Generac LTE LP Fuel Monitor enables you to measure the remaining fuel level in
any propane tank – no matter what LP appliances are connected. Use it to take control of your fuel
consumption, plan for deliveries, and protect yourself against run outs. The solution oers:
• Easy installation in under 5 minutes on any above-or below-ground tank.
• Mobile Link integration to see your tank level in real-time, from anywhere via phone/computer.
• Text and email notications that alert you when your tank level drops below a certain threshold.
• Peace of mind that you will always be prepared for the storm and protected against run outs.
Tank Monitoring is the easiest, most reliable way to ensure
you always have enough propane to weather the storm.
Cold Weather Preparedness Guide | 18
Generator Safety
When using a portable generator for emergency power, it is important to be aware of potential hazards. Always
keep these basic guidelines in mind when running your generator so that you operate it responsibly and safely.
Be sure to read and follow the instructions in the owner’s manual before using the portable generator.
• Using a generator indoors can kill you in minutes.
Exhaust contains carbon monoxide—a deadly
poisonous gas you cannot see or smell.
• Never run a generator indoors or in partly
enclosed areas such as garages.
• Only use outdoors and far from windows,
doors, vents, crawl spaces and in an area where
adequate ventilation is available and will not
accumulate deadly exhaust gas.
• Always use a battery-operated carbon
monoxide alarm indoors, installed according
to the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Keep children away from portable
generators at all times.
• Keep the area surrounding the generator clean and
free from debris and keep a clearance of ve feet on all
sides to allow for proper ventilation of the generator.
• Generators can be used during a wide variety of
weather temperatures, but should be protected
from the elements when not in use to prevent
shorting and rusting.
• Operate the generator only on level surfaces and
where it will not be exposed to excessive moisture,
dirt, dust, or corrosive vapors.
• Inspect the generator regularly and contact
the nearest authorized service provider for
repair or part replacements.
• Always disconnect the spark plug wire and place
the wire where it cannot contact the spark plug
to prevent accidental starting when setting up,
transporting, adjusting or repairing the generator.
• Do not connect your generator directly to
your home’s wiring or into a regular household
outlet to avoid electrocution and shock hazards.
• Only start or stop the generator when there
is no electrical load connected.
• Do not operate the generator in wet conditions,
such as rain or snow.
Myth: Place the generator on planks of wood if the ground is wet.
Even if the wood does not become saturated with water, there
is a risk of electrocution when the wires run across the ground.
Myth: Use a kid’s tent or make a box to keep the generator dry from rain.
Plugs and the interface need to be dry to avoid electrocution. However, most tent and
enclosure “solutions” do not factor in the airow needs for a generator. Airow helps keep
the generator cool so the engine can continue to run properly. Additionally, without enough
airow, there may be buildup of carbon monoxide.
Myth: If it’s windy or wet in the yard, just put the generator a little closer to the
house on the patio or porch. Just keep nearby windows and doors shut.
To address carbon monoxide risk, Consumer Product Safety Commission guidance
directs consumers to operate portable generators outside only, at least 20-feet away
from the house, and direct the generator’s exhaust away from the home. Do not operate
a generator on an outside porch, in a carport, or in a garage.
Myth: Any extension cord will work.
Indoor extension cords are not made for outdoors – they do not repel moisture.
Using an indoor cord outside could result in electrocution.
Source: https://cpsc.gov/Newsroom/NewsReleases/2020/CPSC-Warns-Consumers-inPath-of-Storms-to-Take-PrecautionsWhen-Using-Portable-Generators
Common Myths About
Portable Generators:
Cold Weather Preparedness Guide | 20
Food
F 7-day supply of non-perishables
per person
F Manual can opener for food
F Disposable plates,
cups, utensils
F Napkins or paper towels
F Cookware to boil water
Water
F Three gallons of water per
person, per day for both
drinking and sanitation (FEMA
recommends a 5-day supply)
First Aid
F Fully stocked rst aid kit
F Additional prescriptions
or essential medicine
F List of current medications
and allergies
F Fire extinguisher
F Extra cash in case
ATMs are down
Lighting
F Flashlights and extra batteries
F Utility lighter
F A large light source
(e.g. lantern)
Tools
F Snow shovels
F Windshield scraper
F Rock salt to melt ice
F Wrench and pliers to turn
o utilities
F A whistle to signal for help
F Extra batteries
Communication
F Battery-powered AM/FM radio
F NOAA hazard-alert radio
F Cell phone
F Car or emergency charger
for mobile devices
F Small notepads and pencils
F Games and activities that
don’t require electricity
Baby Needs
F Bottles and formula
F Two-week supply of diapers
F Baby wipes and diaper
rash ointment
Transportation
F Maps of local and state roads
F Directions to nearby
warming shelters
F Spare tire or tire patch kit
F Emergency roadside
ares or triangles
F List of local services and
contact information
F Tow chains or rope
F Tire chains
Sanitation &
Personal Care
F Spare set of clothes and shoes
for each person
F At least one blanket per person
F Extra hats, gloves or mittens,
scarves, and thick socks
F Toothbrushes and toothpaste
F Toilet paper
F Personal, feminine care items
F Soaps and shampoos
F Trash bags
F Disinfectant wipes or gels
Pet Needs
F One week of food and water
F Leash and a crate or carrier
F Bed, dishes, toys
F Any medications
F Battery-operated air pump
for aquarium
F Vet’s contact information
F Waste bags
F Photo of you and your pet for
proof of ownership
Emergency Kit Checklist
Cold Weather Preparedness Guide | 21
Family Contact Information
CONTACT INFORMATION
OUTOFTOWN CONTACT: CONTACT #:
EVACUATION CENTER: PHONE #:
LOCAL MEETING SPOT: PHONE #:
FAMILY MEMBER INFORMATION
NAME:
DATE OF BIRTH:
SOCIAL SECURITY NO.:
SPECIAL NOTE:
NAME:
DATE OF BIRTH:
SOCIAL SECURITY NO.:
SPECIAL NOTE:
NAME:
DATE OF BIRTH:
SOCIAL SECURITY NO.:
SPECIAL NOTE:
NAME:
DATE OF BIRTH:
SOCIAL SECURITY NO.:
SPECIAL NOTE:
WHERE WE MIGHT BE
FAMILY MEMBER:
LOCATION 1:
ADDRESS:
PHONE NUMBER:
LOCATION 2:
ADDRESS:
PHONE NUMBER:
FAMILY MEMBER:
LOCATION 1:
ADDRESS:
PHONE NUMBER:
LOCATION 2:
ADDRESS:
PHONE NUMBER:
FAMILY MEMBER:
LOCATION 1:
ADDRESS:
PHONE NUMBER:
LOCATION 2:
ADDRESS:
PHONE NUMBER:
FAMILY MEMBER:
LOCATION 1:
ADDRESS:
PHONE NUMBER:
LOCATION 2:
ADDRESS:
PHONE NUMBER:
IMPORTANT CONTACTS COMPANY NAME PHONE # POLICY #
MEDICAL INSURANCE
HOMEOWNER'S INSURANCE
VETERINARIAN
RESOURCES
(provide the following for each family member and update with any chang-
es)
Cold Weather Preparedness Guide | 22
Family Medication Form
MEDICINAL ALLERGIES
MEDICATION NAME REACTION
CURRENT PRESCRIPTIONS
MEDICATION
NAME
DOCTOR'S NAME
DOCTOR'S
NUMBER
REASON FOR
TREATMENT
DOSAGE MG
HOW OFTEN I
TAKE IT
NONPRESCRIPTION MEDICATIONS INCLUDING VITAMINS & SUPPLEMENTS
NAME REASON FOR TREATMENT DOSAGE MG HOW OFTEN I TAKE IT
Print out and complete for each family member.
This form is for:
Cold Weather Preparedness Guide | 23
ITEM PRICE DATE BRAND
FURNITURE
ELECTRONICS
OTHER
Home Inventory
Use the following home inventory form for each room in your home to make sure all
your valuables are documented in the event of a major storm.
PORTABLE VS. AUTOMATIC HOME STANDBY POWER
You may be considering a portable generator for use during severe cold weather
events. While they can certainly be used to provide backup power, there
are some key dierences to be aware of compared to a home standby unit.
Cold Weather Preparedness Guide | 24
