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What Should Every Homeowner Know Before a Major Storm Hits?

Last updated October 31, 2026

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The short answer

Prepare Your Property for High Winds and Rain

Walk around your home and identify potential vulnerabilities. Trim tree branches that could fall on your roof or windows. Secure outdoor furniture, grills, and decorations so they do not become projectiles in strong winds. Clear your gutters and downspouts to ensure rainwater can flow away from your foundation.

Check your roof for loose or damaged shingles and have a roofer make repairs. Ensure all windows and doors are properly sealed. In areas prone to heavy seasonal rain, consider installing storm shutters or using pre-cut plywood to protect large windows from potential breakage.

Assemble an Emergency Kit and Important Documents

Your emergency kit should contain enough non-perishable food and water to last each person at least three days. Include a battery-powered radio, flashlights, extra batteries, a basic first-aid kit, and tools. Pack personal hygiene items, blankets, and a change of clothes for every family member.

Keep critical documents in a waterproof, portable container. This includes insurance policies, identification, medical records, and bank information. Have a list of important phone numbers, including your utility companies and a local water damage pro. Store digital copies of these documents on a secure cloud service or a USB drive.

  • One gallon of water per person per day
  • Non-perishable food and a manual can opener
  • Basic first-aid supplies
  • Battery-powered radio and flashlights with extra batteries
  • Copies of insurance policies and personal ID
  • Cash in small denominations and a charger for your phone

Know How to Shut off Your Home's Utilities

Everyone in your household should know the location of the main water shutoff valve and how to turn it. This can prevent catastrophic flooding if a pipe bursts during a storm. The valve is typically found where the main water line enters your home, such as in a utility closet, garage, or near the water heater.

Learn how to shut off your home's electricity at the main circuit breaker and gas at the main valve. Only turn off the gas if you suspect a leak or are instructed to by authorities, as it may require a professional to restart. Keep the necessary tools, like a wrench, near the gas valve for quick access.

Create a Family Communication and Evacuation Plan

Decide on a safe meeting place both inside your home and outside your neighborhood. Designate an out-of-town contact person whom family members can call to check in and relay messages. Make sure all family members, including children, know how to send a text message, as texts often go through when phone calls cannot.

Plan and practice multiple evacuation routes from your home and community. Keep your car's gas tank at least half full as a storm approaches. Include plans for your pets, knowing which hotels or shelters accept animals. Review this plan seasonally so everyone remembers what to do.

Understand What to Do After Water Enters Your Home

If your home floods, prioritize safety. Do not enter standing water if the electricity is still on, as there is a risk of electrocution. Once it is safe, document all damage with photos and videos for your insurance claim. Move undamaged belongings to a dry area to prevent further loss.

Contact a local water damage pro for help with water extraction and drying. Standing water can warp floors, ruin drywall, and lead to mold growth within 24 to 48 hours. The pros have industrial equipment to properly dry the structure. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Contact your insurance company to start the claims process.

  • Ensure the area is electrically safe before entering
  • Photograph and video all damage before cleanup begins
  • Remove standing water as quickly as possible
  • Move saturated rugs and furniture to a dry area
  • Promote air circulation by opening windows if weather permits
  • Contact your insurance provider to report the damage

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Frequently asked questions

What is the most important thing to do right before a storm hits?

Secure your property and gather your emergency supplies. Move indoors, stay away from windows, and monitor official weather alerts. Ensure your phone is charged and you know the location of your utility shutoffs. Acting quickly based on reliable information is key to staying safe.

How can I protect my home from flood water?

Use sandbags or flood barriers at doorways and low openings. Ensure your yard slopes away from the foundation and your downspouts direct water several feet from the house. If flooding is imminent, move valuables to a higher floor. Afterward, a water damage inspection can assess any hidden moisture in walls or floors.

Who should I call first if my home floods during the storm?

First, ensure everyone is safe and out of harm's way. Then, you can contact a local water damage pro for emergency water extraction and drying services to prevent further damage. You should also contact your insurance company to report the loss. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered.

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