Disaster Preparedness

When severe storms strike, be ready. Make sure your home and family are prepared. Storms and natural disasters can happen at any time of year. From snowstorms to wildfires and hurricanes to tornadoes, The Home Depot has what you need to get weather ready. Not sure what you’ll need? We can help with that.

Before the Storm

The time to prepare for a storm is before the storm strikes. The time you put in early on your storm preparation can make a real difference later. No matter what type of weather threatens, it’s important to always have a plan. Everyone in the family should know what to do and where to go in the event of severe storms. In coastal and hurricane-prone areas, know your evacuation routes.

Next, make sure you have an emergency weather kit or a “go bag”. This waterproof kit should be ready to go at a moment’s notice and should contain a first aid kit. It’s also important to stock your emergency kit with water and non-perishable food, enough to feed each member of the family for at least three days. Don’t forget the manual can opener. Stock your survival kit with your medications, flashlights, extra batteries, important paperwork, and some extra cash. Prepare your own disaster preparedness kit or start with a ready-made kit. We have a variety of ready-to-go emergency kits for your home and your car.

Take steps to prepare your home for whatever mother nature throws your way.  In hurricane-prone areas, your storm preparation plan may include boarding up windows. If you don’t have hurricane shutters, you can use plywood to protect your windows. Our How to Board up Windows guide lists all the tools and supplies you’ll need to board your windows and prevent dangerous debris from shattering your windows. Secure lawn furniture and anything that could become a projectile in strong winds. Fill your bathtub with clean water that you can use for bathing, washing clothes or flushing the toilet, if water supplies are disrupted. Trim any tree limbs or trees that could break off and damage your property. It’s important to stay abreast of the latest storm watches and warnings for your area. For a more complete hurricane preparation checklist, check out the How to Prepare for a Hurricane guide. 

After the Storm

After the storm passes and you’ve been given the “all clear” to go outside or return home, you’ll be able to assess the damage. Be careful to avoid fallen trees and powerlines and avoid any sharp objects. If there is a loss of power, properly used portable generators can be a lifesaver. Just remember that generators should never be used inside your home or any enclosed space, like a garage. Explore the Types of Generators guide for helpful information in choosing the right generator for your size home. If you have roof damage, durable water-resistant tarps are a must. You might also need cleaning supplies, such as gloves, large garbage bags and buckets to complete the cleanup. 

Your Supplies, Delivered

Start putting your disaster preparedness plans in motion now with the help of The Home Depot. Shop the items you need for your area’s specific weather threats. Snowblowers, chainsaws, sandbags and more – we have what you need to weather any storm. Get your storm prep supplies delivered. Buy online and get free 2-day delivery. Or get free in-store or curbside pickup.