One of the nation’s most brutal winter storms is expected this weekend. Winter storm warnings are posted from western Texas all the way to Erie, Pennsylvania. With freezing rain expected, utilities warn that power outages and blocked roads are likely. This ice storm preparation checklist is a good resource to have in your Upper Great Lakes supply hoard in case the worst of this storm is headed your way. Homeowners have limited time to reduce risk and prepare for several days without electricity.
Ice Storm Preparation Inside the House: Do This Now
Heat and pipes
- Set thermostats to at least 65°F to reduce the risk of pipe freezing.
- Open cabinet doors under sinks on exterior walls.
- Locate the main water shutoff and label it.
- Wrap exposed pipes with insulation or towels.
Power loss readiness
- Fully charge phones, laptops, power banks, and medical devices.
- Set refrigerators and freezers to the coldest safe setting.
- Freeze containers of water to help keep food cold if power fails.
Fire safety
- Test smoke and carbon monoxide alarms.
- Clear space around fireplaces, space heaters, and wood stoves.
- Never use grills or generators indoors.
Lighting
- Place flashlights and headlamps in each room.
- Avoid candles if possible; if used, keep them away from curtains and never leave unattended.
Food and Water (Especially if you have a well)
- Cook and refrigerate perishable meals today.
- Fill bathtubs or large containers with water for sanitation.
- Fill jugs of water for toilet flushing
Ice Storm Preparation Outside the House: Quick Risk Reduction
- Park vehicles away from trees and power lines.
- Bring in or tie down trash cans and loose items.
- Clear storm drains of leaves and debris near the property to reduce icing and pooling.
- Fuel vehicles and check tire pressure.
- Stage ice melt and a sturdy shovel near entryways.
Ice Storm Preparation Supplies for 3–4 Days After an Ice Storm
Water
- 1 gallon per person per day (minimum).
- Extra for pets.
Food
- Shelf-stable meals: canned soups, beans, pasta, tuna, and nut butter.
- No-cook options: protein bars, crackers, dried fruit.
- Manual can opener.
Heat and warmth
- Extra blankets, sleeping bags, winter clothing layers.
- Safe indoor heat source only if properly vented.
Power and light
- Flashlights/headlamps with spare batteries.
- Battery or hand-crank radio.
- Power banks; a small generator, only if used outdoors, far from openings.
Medical
- 7-day supply of prescriptions.
- First-aid kit.
- Backup power for medical devices if required.
Home and safety
- Ice melt or sand.
- Duct tape and plastic sheeting for draft control.
- Fire extinguisher.
Cash and documents
- Small bills.
- Printed emergency contacts and insurance info.
Pets
- Extra food, water, and medications.
- Warm bedding and litter supplies.
After the Ice Hits: Key Safety Notes
- Treat downed lines as live; report and keep distance.
- Use generators outdoors only, at least 20 feet from doors and windows.
- Keep fridge doors closed; food stays safe ~4 hours (fridge) and ~48 hours (full freezer).
- Check on neighbors, especially seniors and those with disabilities.
Bottom line: A few hours of preparation can prevent frozen pipes, food loss, and dangerous heating mistakes. Power restoration after ice storms can take days. Planning for 72–96 hours is realistic and prudent.
Downloadable Ice Storm Preparation Checklist
To help readers act quickly, this article includes a printable Ice Storm Preparation Checklist covering what to do before freezing rain arrives and what supplies are needed to get through three to four days without power.
The checklist is designed for homeowners and renters across Michigan, Wisconsin, Minnesota, northern Indiana, and Ohio, where ice, snow, and extreme cold can disrupt utilities and travel with little warning.
The checklist includes:
- Inside-the-home steps to protect heat, pipes, and food
- Outside actions to reduce damage and injury risk
- A 72–96 hour supply list for water, food, heat, lighting, and medical needs
- Safety reminders for generator use, carbon monoxide, and downed power lines
Readers can download, print, or save the checklist for use during the storm or future winter events.
? Download the Ice Storm Preparation Checklist (PDF)
