When winter strikes, storms can bring heavy snow, ice, freezing rain, high winds, and dangerously low temperatures. These conditions may last for days and pose serious risks to homes, safety, and comfort. It’s essential for homeowners to be proactive in preparing.

Here’s what you should know — and do — before, during, and after a winter storm.

Before the Storm

1. Winterize your home

• Add insulation to walls, attic, and basements to reduce heat loss.
• Seal leaks: caulk or weather-strip windows and doors.
• Install storm windows, or temporarily cover windows with plastic sheeting.
• Check that roofing, gutters, downspouts, and eaves are in good condition (remove debris).
• Ensure trees or branches near the home are trimmed to reduce risk of falling under heavy snow.

2. Build an emergency kit

Plan for at least 72 hours (3 days) of self-sufficiency. Include:

• Drinking water (4 L per person per day)
• Non-perishable food / canned goods & manual can opener
• Flashlights, extra batteries
• Battery powered or hand-crank radio
• First aid kit & medications
• Extra warm clothing, blankets
• Copies of key documents (ID, insurance)
• Pet food, baby supplies, or special items your family needs
• Portable phone charger / power bank

3. Plan for heating & power outages

• Consider a safe alternate heat source (wood stove, fireplace, safe space heaters).
• If you own a generator, ensure it is installed outdoors, with proper ventilation, and never used inside an enclosed space.
• Install carbon monoxide alarms with battery backup, especially outside sleeping areas.

4. Prepare your vehicle (if you must travel)

• Equip with winter tires, full tank of gas, windshield washer fluid rated for low temperatures.
• Keep emergency kit in each vehicle (blanket, shovel, ice scraper, traction mats, snacks).
• Monitor weather forecasts and avoid travel when storm warnings are in effect.

5. Check on neighbours & vulnerable persons

• Seniors, people with health challenges, or neighbours living alone may not be able to prepare.
• Share resources or help them assemble supplies.
• Keep pets and livestock in safe, sheltered areas.

During the Storm

• Stay informed via radio, local news, weather apps, and official alert systems.
• Avoid travel, if possible. If you must go out, dress in layers and protect exposed skin from frostbite.
• Use the buddy system if going outdoors.
• Avoid overexertion when shoveling — take breaks and stay hydrated.
• Keep vents and exhausts clear of snow to prevent carbon monoxide buildup.
• If traveling by vehicle, ensure your tailpipe is clear and never stay trapped in snow with exhaust blocked.
• Run a slow trickle of water in faucets to help prevent freezing in pipes.

After the Storm

• Wait until authorities say it’s safe before venturing out.
• Clear walkways and driveways carefully; salt or sand icy paths.
• Watch for flooding as snow melts, particularly around basements and foundations.
• Inspect your home for damage (roof leaks, broken pipes, structural stress).
• Monitor for water damage inside walls, ceilings, or crawl spaces.
• If pipes froze or burst, shut off water and mitigate damage; call professionals.
• Keep communicating — check on neighbours, especially vulnerable ones.

At Paul Davis Canada, we’re ready to help if winter storms cause damage to your home. Whether it’s flooding, roof collapse, burst pipes, or structural stress, our emergency response teams are equipped to restore your property safely and quickly.

• Contact us 24/7 for immediate damage assessment and mitigation.
• Let us help document damage for insurance claims.
• Trust us to restore your home and peace of mind.