Foul Weather Preparedness – Smith Lake, Alabama

Here in North Alabama, residents are mostly concerned with weather associated with severe thunderstorms that produce tornadoes or damaging straight-line winds, and these are most prevalent in spring and late fall.  But on rare occasions, we do experience difficulty with winter storms that produce freezing rain (ice storms), sleet, and snow. This is because Southerners are generally not as prepared for these conditions as well as Northerners, who encounter them more frequently. 
 
We’ve prepared a list of things to consider in anticipation of foul weather events, and we hope you find these items useful depending on what season the weather occurs.  Feel free to contact us if you have additional information you’d like to see included.  

*As a common courtesy, be sure to check on neighbors, elderly, friends and family to make sure everyone is getting through the weather event safely.  Know exact addresses and directions in case you need to call for help during emergencies.  Whenever possible, assist those that may have trouble preparing or making it through the event without difficulty.

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STORM PREPARATION LISTS
For Seasonal Storms and Power Outages
 NOTE:  items in italics are pertinent to winter storms

HOME

AT HOME

• Batteries – have every size possibly needed and then some. 
• Blankets or sleeping bags - especially important in cold weather situations when there is no heat.
• Boat prep – well before any threat of bad weather, it’s a good idea to secure marine vessels and cover them properly, as well as remove all watersport equipment and other lake season gear.  It is best to have annual boat maintenance and winterizing done prior to the onset of winter. Most lake residents do this by late fall.  
• Can-opener – non-electric, of course. 
• Cash – preferably in small bills.  Cash is handy in power outages when card readers are down in stores or at gas pumps, assuming one can get to a store or gas station.  
• Clothing – a water-resistant sealed package of clean laundry is advised for any weather emergency, because nothing is better than clean dry clothing after a rough weather period.  For winter weather:  hats, mittens, socks, blankets, jackets, and more clothes for layering.  Long-lasting hand warmers are handy items to have packed and ready to use.
• Coolers – even inexpensive coolers will work to help keep food and meds safe in a power outage, and they are good for transferring refrigerated items to increase shelf life of cold foods.
• Disposable dishware – paper plates, bowls and disposable utensils will save a lot of dishwashing after an inclement weather event.  
• Dock preparation – be sure to remove any items from the dock that could get blown off from wind or damaged from ice or snow.  Secure all dock connections to shore, docking lines on vessels, and prepare boat lifts to function properly. Please see videos on Free State Boat Dock's Instagram page for great tips on securing your dock for all types of situations.  
• Documents (VIP) – safe and sealed hard copies (or digital - on a shared service like DropBox or a thumb drive) copies of personal, financial and medical records:  e.g. medication (dose schedules and other pertinent medical information), proof of address, the lease or deed for the home, passports, birth certificates, insurance policies, credit cards, and social security cards.
• Electrical devices – hopefully, surge protectors for TVs and computers are pre-installed; but, it’s still best to turn off and unplug unnecessary electrical equipment, including sensitive electronics, computers, stoves and washers/dryers that can also be damaged from power surges/spikes.  Leave at least one light on for when the power is restored.  It’s also a good idea to go ahead and locate the breaker box ahead of weather events and advise the entire family of its location and operation.  
• Entertainment – find some fun items to keep the family busy when all electronics are dead or charging.  Consider books, art supplies, craft projects, board games, cards, and download any movies, books, or maps for offline use.  In the event of snow, stock up for outdoor fun as well, e.g. sleds, snowshoes, snowball making devices, etc.
• Fire safety/prevention – test smoke and carbon-monoxide detectors.
• Firewood – make sure to have at least a week’s supply stacked and ready to burn.
• First Aid Kit – for harsh winter conditions, make sure there are warming blankets in the kit along with all the best basics for any injuries.
• Food – non-perishable and some perishables (see list below).  Consider turning the refrigerator/freezer temperature down before a storm event so that the fridge/freezer will hold a cold temp longer.  Keep refrigerator/freezer doors sealed as much as possible prior to the weather onset and obviously after a power outage.  Unopened refrigerators can keep foods optimally cold for at least 4 hours, so use the refrigerated food first.  Use food from the freezer last, as a full freezer will hold a safe temp for about 48 hours if kept tightly closed.  Use non-refrigerated perishable and non-perishable foods last.  If a power outage lasts beyond a day, move pertinent refrigerated foods into coolers pre-stoked with ice before the weather event.  Throw out any questionable food – when in doubt, throw it out!  Take temperatures of food with a thermometer if needed. Anything exposed to temps higher than 40 degrees F for 2 hours or more needs to be disposed of.
• Gas – have tanks full in all vehicles.  Gas stations could lose power.  Consider that cranking and using a car as backup for charging phones/tablets/computers may be necessary at some point if charger banks run down.  Also keep plenty of extra fuel in gas cans to run generators or whatever is needed.  
• Gas (Natural/Propane) – make sure the home’s gas tank for heating/cooking has been filled ahead of anticipated storms and definitely prior to winter weather.  
• Generator – backup power generators are a must.  They are expensive, but a whole house generator is optimal when living in a remote area.  Gas powered generators are also a great back-up plan to run small household items for necessity.  Never run a generator or grill inside garages or homes or too near them.  At the very least, keep a small generator that can charge phones and perform very basic duties when needed. Have long extension cords on hand so the generator does not have to be too close to living quarters.  The generator purchased should be rated for the appropriate amount of power.  When using a portable generator, connect any equipment directly to the outlets on the generator.  Do not connect a portable generator to a home’s electrical system.  Basically, read the instructions and follow them or contact a licensed electrician for instructions, assistance and proper installation.
• Grilling – outdoor grills should be clean and ready to use with all utensils nearby and ready.  Make sure to have charcoal, charcoal lighter fluid, matches/lighters for a charcoal grill, or a full propane tank for a gas grill.
• Heat Source – if using a fireplace, confirm the chimney is clear and have dry wood split and ready to burn.  Electric alternatives are a must, or propane and kerosene powered space heaters (be sure to check safety instructions on these and follow instructions carefully to avoid danger).  For winter weather, it’s best to identify one room in the house as the “warm room” for the family to camp out in if power fails.  This keeps heat isolated to one area so the source doesn’t have to work as hard. Make sure everyone is together for close watch and on alert to minimize accidents or danger.
• Helmets – having these on hand can be a lifesaver during tornadic and straight-line storms for protection from falling debris, but also consider them for winter weather events too. It’s also nice to have these for sledding or purely for safety when traversing icy areas outside since there are many steep areas near homes around the lake.  
• Ice – stored in coolers well ahead of any weather event for milk or anything needing to stay cold.
• Lighting – flashlights (w/batteries), battery-operated candles and/or portable camping lanterns.  Flame candles should be a last resort option due to being a fire hazard.  Each family member needs a flashlight of their own for single tasks such as quick trips to bathrooms, taking out trash, getting firewood, etc.
• Matches/lighters – for lighting a fire in the fireplace, or for outside grills and campfires, and if needed for cooking on a gas stove.
• Medications – at least a full week supply needs to be on hand.  Pick up prescriptions and essential medical supplies early.  Also have back-up batteries for any medical devices that are necessary.  
• Outdoor furniture, lightweight items, tools – however possible, secure these and other items that could potentially blow away or be damaged by heavy ice or snow in winter weather events.  
• Phone chargers and cords – make sure to have pre-charged or battery-operated phone chargers on hand.  Charge all phones, power banks, tablets, and other rechargeables prior to inclement weather events.  Vehicle chargers can be used in emergencies.  
• Photography – for insurance purposes, it is always great to keep updated photos of all property in case of damage/loss.
• Plumbing – in cold weather scenarios, insulate, drain or allow water to drip at a trickle for pipes located in exposed outside walls or otherwise under-heated locations.  Open cabinets to allow warm air circulation around plumbing.  Disconnect hoses outside and properly cover all outdoor spigots. Cover outdoor faucets with insulated caps or wrap with insulation.  Locate water shut-off valves and know how to shut off water quickly if a pipe bursts.
• Power – immediately report any downed power lines to appropriate officials and do not touch or go near them.  Contact neighbors upon discovery.  Identify any nearby neighbors, shelters or businesses that might have power if there is a need to access them in an emergency.  Plan well ahead.
• Radio – have a wireless/battery-operated NOAA weather radio to receive emergency information, plus a regular portable radio for entertainment.
• Refrigeration – set the fridge and freezer to colder temps ahead of time so they hold temperature well, giving food a little longer lifespan. Don’t forget to reset to normal temps after a storm.
• Safety advice – the primary hazards to avoid when using alternate sources for electricity, heating or cooking are carbon monoxide poisoning, electric shock and fire.  Never use a generator, grill, camp stove or other gasoline, propane, natural gas or charcoal-burning device inside a home, garage, basement, crawlspace or any partially-enclosed area.  Locate units away from doors, windows and vents that could allow carbon monoxide to creep indoors.  If a carbon monoxide alarm sounds, move quickly to a fresh air location outdoors, or by an open window or door and call for help. 
• Thermometer – a digital quick-response thermometer can quickly check the internal temps of food to ensure they are cold enough to use safely.  Also have a thermometer ready for food cooked using alternative methods to make sure meat temps are adequate and edible.
• Toiletries – residents may have to take sink baths with water warmed by a fire or gas stove, so prepare products ahead and have plenty of towels clean and ready to go. 
• Tools – keep a shovel or other outdoor equipment to make foot paths and travel areas safer.  Add items like a multipurpose tool, knife, scissors, flares, chainsaw, blower, etc. 
• Vehicle (see list below) –  whenever possible, keep vehicles away from trees and power lines.  
• Water (see list below) – it’s a good idea to fill jugs, buckets or the bathtub with water for flushing and washing.  It’s also good to freeze several water bottles to serve as “ice packs” in coolers to drink when thawed.  

 
 
HOME PANTRY STAPLES
Always consider items that can last a few days:  mainly water, shelf-stable foods, and quick snacks. Even during a power outage, you can stay nourished to have energy for when it’s time to get out into the weather to assess a situation better, or for cooking or doing minor outdoor repairs. Many items are everyday basics.  If you have a stove/oven in operation, you’ll be in much better shape than many people.

Basic non-perishable foods

• Baby food, supplies & medications – for the little ones.
• Baking mixes - foods like pancakes and biscuits can be great fillers and made easily with a hot plate (pancakes) or outdoor griddle, grill or campfire (biscuits).
• Beverages – instant coffee, tea, hot chocolate, etc.
• Bread and Grains  – oats, rice, and other types of grains are filling starches that are easy to make with water/milk. Also consider bagels, cereal, crackers, cookies, chips, toaster pastries and other similar snacks.
• Canned foods/soups – canned fish/meats and fruits/vegetables are useful in a pinch as a substitute for fresh or frozen food. Canned beans, in particular, are versatile and excellent additions for soups and chilis. Be sure to have a manual can opener on hand.
• Condiments & seasonings – a must for grilling out during power outages.
• Granola or protein bars – easy on-the-go snacks that provide quick energy.
• Jarred food – jellies, pickles, meats, etc.
• Milk - shelf-stable or powdered.  Buy practically any type of milk or alternative, just observe storage instructions on packaging.
• MREs – “Meals Ready to Eat” are great to have on hand. Those who have served in the military will surely be familiar with these. 
• Pasta and jarred sauces – an instant meal of just two items.  Pasta is easy to heat up and add anything  for a more rounded nutritional meal.
• Peanut butter and jelly – any nut butter can provide a great source of healthy fats and protein.
• Pet food, supplies & medications – for outdoor animals in winter, consider safe heating sources, covered shelter, and bedding (straw or water-resistant fabric).  
• Snacks – packaged and pre-portioned, easy to grab - e.g. beef jerky, pudding cups, applesauce, etc.

 
Basic perishable foods

• Fresh produce – milk and eggs are great to have for the first few days, but some can spoil quickly if in temps of 40 degrees F or higher for a couple of hours, so consume those first.  
• Fruits and veggies – much like the pantry staples, uncut fruits and some veggies can last for several days outside of refrigeration if the power goes out.
  • Apples
  • Avocados
  • Bananas
  • Carrots
  • Citrus, such as oranges and grapefruits
  • Pears
  • Potatoes
  • Tomatoes
  • Dried fruits and nuts – make a trail mix or just enjoy as an instant snack.
  • Packaged fruit cups or canned fruits and veggies
  • etc.
• Bottled water – for when power goes out, have some on hand for drinking, food prep, washing hands, brushing teeth, sink baths, flushing the toilet.  Stock up for a 3-5 day supply - one (1) gallon per person per day (the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) suggests a gallon a day for each person in the household). 
• Disposable dishware – paper bowls/plates and plastic utensils, plus paper towels and toilet paper.  Helpful when there is no water for dishwashing and no time for extra clean-up duties after power is restored.

HOME PROPERTY WRAP-UP (what to do after a storm)

• Boats/marine vessels – check marine vessels and secure them fully.
• Boat dock – check dock and dock cables/lines and fully secure or repair.
• Contacts list – keep a list of emergency contacts (check our list) so that reaching out for help is quick and easy.
• Debris – clean up debris and place neatly in a location designated for pick up, or find a company to relocate it to a proper dump site, or prepare to discard debris if no pick up is available in the area.
• Drive carefully – realize that roads could be affected, there could be storm debris, and some roads may be closed/blocked.  Remember there may be other anxious drivers out and about.
• Help – consider lending a hand to assist others once personal property and belongings are secured.
• Property inspection – check for downed lines, downed trees, busted plumbing, roof damage, etc.

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VEHICLES
 
VEHICLE EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS

• Battery – test to be sure it is operable and replace if necessary.
• Engine fluid levels – check oil (use synthetic oil in cool temps), washer fluid (use de-icing fluid in cold temps), coolant/anti-freeze, brake fluid, power steering fluid, etc. It’s best to keep fluid levels optimal at all times, and keep good records on this type of maintenance.
• Lighting – test headlights and taillights to be sure they are fully operable.
• Tires – inspect tread, check for leaks, (winter weather: install snow tires if pertinent, or have tire chains on hand).

 

VEHICLE EMERGENCY KIT 

• Air Compressor (portable) – consider one that also offers charging ports for phones or other convenient features.
• Blankets or sleeping bags – preferably water-resistant materials.
• Clothing – preferably water-resistant materials.  For winter:  mittens/gloves, hats, boots, coats, and thinner warm layering pieces.  For all weather events, it is handy to have an extra set of clothing and underwear to replace any that become wet/soiled/exposed to elements.
• First Aid Kit – add one to the trunk and inspect it often, but definitely before any trip that might encounter adverse weather conditions.
• Food – ready to eat is best, plus snacks and high-calorie non-perishable foods.
• Gas – make sure all vehicles have a full tank.
• Lighting – battery-operated, chargeable flashlights or camping lanterns.
• Medication – extra prescription medicine should be something always available for trips and unexpected events.
• Mobile phone and supplies – cell phone chargers, relevant cords, pre-charged mobile power banks.
• Tires – spare tire(s) and basic operable jack.
• Toilet – bucket to use as an emergency toilet, trash bags to line it and for sanitary disposal, plus tissues, toilet paper, wet wipes and paper towels.
• Tools – flares, jumper/booster cables, knife, multipurpose tool, scissors, tire gauge, tow ropes/straps, plus a window breaker and seatbelt cutter, which should already be in the tool kit for other types of emergencies (winter pertinent:  ice scraper with brush, snow shovel with brush).
• Traction material – sand or cat litter for assisting a stuck vehicle in a muddy/icy/snowy area.  
• Travel – park vehicles away from large trees and loose limbs whenever possible.  During severe thunderstorms and tornado warnings, stay put - it is not safe to drive during these conditions.  Winter specific: make it a family plan to avoid driving once freezing rain begins and wait to get back on the road after weather reporters advise it is safe to do so.  Remember that bridges, overpasses and shaded roads freeze first and longest.  Assume that in any difficult weather conditions, flights and travel can be disrupted for days at a time.  
• Water – consider one (1) gallon per person per day.
• Wipers – replace old wiper blades and top off washer fluid.

 
List update:  1/25/26
Writer:  The Lakeside Life Team - compilation list