Keeping Your Family Safe During Storms

Hurricane season can bring intense winds, heavy rain, and flooding, and recent weather patterns have shown just how quickly conditions can turn dangerous. Being prepared before a storm arrives is one of the best ways to protect your family and reduce stress when severe weather hits. Having a clear plan, the right supplies, and knowing what to expect before, during, and after a storm can make a big difference.

Stay Informed and Plan Ahead

Make sure to stay up-to-date with reliable sources for weather alerts. Local news stations, the National Weather Service, and community alert systems are some good sources to use for the latest forecasts and warnings. Consider signing up for text or email alerts so you can be notified immediately if conditions change. Talk with your family, including children, about your emergency plan, and share age-appropriate information with your kids, focusing on what you’ll do to keep everyone safe. Practice your plan so that if you need to act quickly, such as moving to a safe room or leaving your home, everyone knows what to do.

Gather Your Emergency Supplies

It’s important to have enough essentials to last at least a few days if you’re unable to leave your home. Store about one gallon of water per person per day, along with non-perishable foods that don’t need to be cooked. Keep flashlights, extra batteries, a battery-powered or hand-crank radio, portable phone chargers, and a first aid kit in an easily accessible spot.

You'll also want to write down important phone numbers for your pediatrician, local hospital, and emergency contacts in case cell service or internet access is lost. If you live in an evacuation zone, plan where you’ll go ahead of time, and keep a bag ready with clothes, medications, personal documents, and comfort items for your children.

Safety During Storms and Flooding

When a storm is expected, follow official guidance about travel and road closures. Avoid driving through floodwaters, as just a few inches can cause a car to lose control, and deeper water can sweep it away entirely. If your vehicle stalls in floodwater, leave immediately and head to higher ground.

Children should never play in or walk through floodwater. Even after the storm passes, standing water can be contaminated with harmful bacteria, chemicals, or hidden debris. Wait for local officials to confirm that it’s safe before returning home or letting kids outside.

Before the storm hits, secure your home by boarding up windows and glass doors. Test your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors to be sure they’re working, and keep spare batteries on hand.

If you lose power during a winter storm, bundle up with extra blankets and warm clothing. Never use your oven or stove for heat, as doing so can cause carbon monoxide poisoning. Generators should always be placed outside and away from windows, doors, and vents.

What to Do After the Storm

The aftermath of a storm can still be dangerous. Flooded areas may have electrical hazards, structural damage, or mold growth. Keep children and teens away from cleanup areas, and make sure your home is thoroughly inspected and disinfected before resuming normal routines. Always confirm that your water supply is safe to drink.

Supporting Kids Emotionally 

Storms can cause anxiety for children, especially if they’ve experienced past weather emergencies. Try to limit their exposure to alarming media coverage. Instead, give them clear, but calm explanations about what’s happening and how your family’s safety plan works. Reassure them that by preparing together, you’re taking important steps to protect them.

For further resources, we recommend bookmarking the links below. 

National Weather Service

Ready.gov

Family Disaster Supplies List from the AAP