Storm Preparedness Checklist for Homes: Keep the Lights (and Safety) On

When the storm hits, will your home be ready? At Lights Back On, we know how crucial light, warmth, and safety are—especially for families already struggling with power insecurity. This checklist will help you prepare your home, protect your loved ones, and preserve essential resources before, during, and after a storm.

What to Do Before and During a Storm

Charge devices in advance:

Power up cell phones, battery packs, and essential devices. Keep a manual crank charger in your emergency kit for when the power goes out.

Keep freezers sealed:

A closed freezer can preserve food for up to three days. Avoid opening unless absolutely necessary.

Unplug and power down:

Disconnect major appliances that might auto-start when electricity returns - especially hot appliances like space heaters, stoves, or computers to reduce fire risk.

Keep pets safe too:

Lightning and electrical surges can affect animals. Ensure they have access to safe shelter, clean water, and food.

Stay informed:

Keep a battery-powered radio or mobile alert system nearby to stay updated with emergency alerts and local weather reports.

Regulate your home's temperature:

Set air conditioning to 78 degrees Fahrenheit in hot weather or heating to 68 degrees Fahrenheit in cold weather to conserve power and maintain comfort longer if power is lost.

Keep windows closed:

This will help stabilize your home's internal temperature for at least 48 hours during outages.

Prepare an Emergency Supply Kit:

Stock it with enough water, non-perishable food, light sources, wipes, medical supplies, and backup batteries to last at least three days.

Avoid bathing during the storm:

Use cleansing wipes or dry shampoo until it's safe again. Lightning can travel through plumbing.

Our Mission: Why This Matters

For the families we serve, storms don’t just cause inconvenience—they can lead to days or weeks in darkness. When communities are already without reliable electricity, preparedness is vital. That's why Lights Back On provides information and resources to ensure that no one is left in the dark when disaster strikes.

How else do you prepare your family during a storm? Tell us in the comments or share this checklist with your community.