Winter
Winter Preparedness Guide
Winter storms in the South hit harder than in the North — because our infrastructure isn't built for them. A Texas ice storm is more dangerous than a Minnesota blizzard because roads, pipes, and power grids aren't designed to handle it. Here's how to be ready.
Before Winter Arrives (October–November)
- Service your furnace or heating system — replace filters, schedule an inspection
- Insulate exposed pipes (especially in garages, crawl spaces, attics)
- Stock your winter car kit (see Car Prep guide)
- Test your smoke and CO detectors — replace batteries
- Stock at least 3 days of food and water
- Identify a warming center near you in case of heating failure
If you use a propane heater as backup heat, use only indoor-rated models and crack a window. CO poisoning is odorless, colorless, and kills quickly. A CO detector is mandatory.
Mr. Heater Buddy Portable Propane Heater
Safe for indoor use with an automatic low-oxygen shutoff. Heats spaces up to 225 sq ft on a single 1-lb propane canister. The most popular emergency heater in America for good reason.
Summer
Summer Preparedness Guide
Heat is the #1 weather-related killer in the US. Power outages during heat waves are deadly, especially for the elderly, young children, and people with medical conditions. Here's how to stay safe.
Before Summer (April–May)
- Have your AC serviced — don't wait until it fails in 100°F weather
- Stock electrolytes and extra water
- Know the signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke
- Identify the nearest cooling center
- Update your summer car kit
Heat exhaustion: heavy sweating, weakness, cool/pale skin, fast pulse. Move to cool area, hydrate. Heat stroke: no sweating, hot/red skin, confusion, loss of consciousness. Call 911 immediately — this is a medical emergency.
Spring
Spring Preparedness Guide
Spring means severe thunderstorms, tornadoes, and flooding — especially across the central US and the South. This is also the best time to reset and restock your supplies after winter.
Spring Prep Priorities
- Know your tornado shelter location — basements, interior rooms on lowest floor
- Download a weather alert app (Weather.gov or your local NWS)
- Check and rotate your emergency food and water supply
- Check sump pump if you have one — test before heavy rain
- Clear storm drains near your home
Fall
Fall Preparedness Guide
Fall is your last chance to prepare before winter hits. Think of it as your annual systems check — review everything, restock, and make sure your home and car are ready for cold weather.