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House Prep Checklist

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Real Storm Protection House Prep Checklist

  • Secure buildings by closing and boarding up windows.
  • Close Curtains, Shutters, and Blinds: To reduce the chance of flying glass if a window is blown out by high winds or flying debris, close shutters and blinds – both inside and out – along with drapes and curtains.
  • Make arrangements for pets and livestock
  • Trim back branches from trees
  • Bring in outdoor objects such as lawn furniture, toys, and garden tools and anchor objects that cannot be brought inside.
  • Remove outside antennas and satellite dishes.
  • Identify the cutoff switches and valves for your water, power, and gas; and know how to turn them off in case of an emergency.
  • Turn off propane tanks and unplug small appliances.
  • Head to the gas station and fill your car’s tank just in case you have to evacuate.
  • Turn refrigerator and freezer to coldest settings. Open only when absolutely necessary and close quickly.
    • Keep the refrigerator and freezer doors closed as much as possible.
    • The refrigerator will keep food cold for about 4 hours if it is unopened.
    • Refrigerated or frozen foods should be kept at 40° F or below for proper food storage.
    • Use a refrigerator thermometer to check temperature.
    • Refrigerated food should be safe as long as the power was out for no more than 4 hours.
    • Discard any perishable food (such as meat, poultry, fish, eggs or leftovers) that has been above 40° F for two hours or more.

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