Your practical checklist for staying safe — before, during, and after severe winter weather.
Winter storms in the Carolinas can bring snow, sleet, freezing rain, power outages, and property damage. Whether you’re securing a home, an office, or a commercial building, a little preparation goes a long way.
This guide walks you through exactly what to do before, during, and after a winter storm — including what steps to take if you experience damage.
Before the Storm: What to Do 24–48 Hours Out
Power & Communication Prep
- Fully charge phones, power banks, lanterns, and flashlights.
- Download movies, maps, and essential info for offline access.
- Fill vehicle gas tanks and keep small‑bill cash on hand.
- Identify one “warm room” where everyone can gather if the power goes out.
For more winter prep insights, see Cincinnati Insurance’s Winter Resources:
🔗 https://www.cinfin.com/cincinnati-insurance-resources/winter
Food & Water Preparation
- Stock 3–5 days of easy, no‑cook foods (tuna packets, crackers, peanut butter, fruit cups).
- Freeze bottles of water to help refrigerators stay cold longer.
- Avoid purchasing large amounts of perishables right before the storm.
Home Heating & Safety
- Lower refrigerator and freezer temps to help preserve food if the power fails.
- Gather extra blankets, hats, gloves, and warm layers.
- Test smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors.
- Never use grills, ovens, or generators indoors.
For more guidance on winter home protection, review Selective Insurance’s Winter Home Prep Tips:
🔗 https://www.selective.com/about-selective/blog/personal-risk-preparedness/winter-home-prep-tips
Protecting Pipes & Water Systems
Preventing frozen pipes is one of the best ways to avoid costly winter damage.
Inside the home or business:
- Open cabinets under sinks to allow warm air to reach plumbing.
- Let faucets in exterior‑wall bathrooms drip slowly during extreme cold.
- Know the location of your main water shutoff valve.
Outside:
- Disconnect outdoor hoses and cover spigots.
- Install insulation on any exposed outdoor pipes.
For businesses:
- Ensure sprinkler systems and fire suppression lines are protected from freeze‑ups.
- Confirm that any emergency power systems (backup generators) are functioning.
For deeper insight into pipe protection and roof safety, see Utica National’s Winter Weather Tips:
🔗 https://www.uticanational.com/safety/personal/snow-and-roofs
Vehicle & Travel Safety
- Avoid driving in freezing rain — bridges and overpasses freeze first.
- Keep an emergency kit in your car: blankets, scraper, snacks, water, charger.
- Top off antifreeze and check wipers, tires, and battery health.
For more safe‑driving tips, visit:
Travelers — Winter Driving Safety Tips
🔗 https://www.travelers.com/resources/auto/safe-driving/wwinter-driving-safety-tips
Penn National — Winter Driving Tips
🔗 https://www.pennnationalinsurance.com/why-choose-us/about-us/winter-driving-tips/
If You Lose Power
- Unplug sensitive electronics to protect against surges.
- Keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed to preserve cold.
- Use flashlights instead of candles whenever possible.
- Locate nearby warming centers or shelters if indoor temps drop too low.
- Use alternative heat sources with extreme caution and proper ventilation.
After the Storm
Safety First
- Treat every downed power line as live.
- Use caution on sidewalks, driveways, and parking lots — refreezing is common overnight.
- Inspect pipes once temperatures rise; leaks often appear after thawing.
- Discard refrigerated food if temperatures exceeded 40°F for more than 4 hours.
Business Considerations
Winter storms can lead to:
- Roof strain or collapse from ice build‑up
- Frozen sprinkler systems
- Slippery walkways that create liability exposure
- Electrical outages that interrupt operations
For workplace safety and slip‑and‑fall prevention, see West Bend’s Winter Loss Control Resources:
🔗 https://www.thesilverlining.com/loss-control-resources/winter-slips-trips-falls
When to File an Insurance Claim
Contact your insurance agent if you experience:
- Burst or leaking pipes
- Roof damage or structural compromise
- Water intrusion
- Damage from falling limbs or ice
- Business interruption concerns
- Spoiled food due to extended power loss (depending on your policy)
Most carriers allow for quick online or app‑based claim reporting.
For storm‑readiness tips related to claims and documentation, check out Auto‑Owners: Preparing for Storm Damage:
🔗 https://www.auto-owners.com/ao-blog/-/blogs/7-ways-to-prepare-for-storm-damage-you-probably-haven-t-heard-before
What To Do in the Interim (Before Repairs Can Be Made)
These steps protect people, property, and your claim.
1. Protect People First
- Avoid damaged or unstable areas.
- If the property is unsafe, relocate until hazards are cleared.
2. Prevent Further Damage
You are responsible for reasonable mitigation efforts:
- Shutting off water if a pipe bursts
- Covering roof openings or broken windows with tarps (if safe)
- Moving belongings away from wet or exposed areas
- Blotting up minor water and increasing airflow with fans
3. Document Everything
- Take clear photos and videos before cleanup.
- Photograph the cause (e.g., pipe, limb, ice).
- Note when the damage was discovered.
4. Save All Receipts
Keep receipts for:
- Temporary repairs
- Emergency supplies
- Lodging
- Contractor evaluations
5. Keep Damaged Items (If Safe)
- Don’t discard items until the adjuster reviews them.
- If disposal is required, document thoroughly first.
6. Wait on Permanent Repairs
Only perform temporary repairs until the adjuster has inspected or you receive approval.
Local Reality: Ice Is More Dangerous Than Snow
In our region:
- ¼ inch of ice can cause widespread outages
- ½ inch of ice can lead to multi‑day power loss and travel disruption
Plan for extended downtime during major ice events.
Final Thoughts
Preparation is the best tool you have during winter weather. Share this guide with neighbors, employees, and anyone who may benefit. If you have questions about coverage, mitigation steps, or filing a claim, your insurance team is here to help.