New Years Resolution: Prepare Your Home for Severe Weather
Posted on Jan 06, 2026 at 10:51 AM
In 2026, Tri-County EMC encourages members to consider a New Years resolution that strengthens safety and peace of mind: preparing their homes and families for severe weather. Advance preparation can signifi cantly reduce stress, damage, and risk when conditions suddenly turn unpredictable.
Severe weather preparedness starts with the home itself. A well-organized approach helps families respond calmly and safely when severe weather strikes. Below are some simple, effective measures that can make a meaningful difference when severe weather strikes. (103102001)
- Have flashlights with extra batteries on hand. While candles can be helpful as light sources, flashlights are the safer option.
- Gather heavy clothes and blankets. If you have a working fireplace, now is the time to stock up on fi rewood. Make sure your chimney is clean and free of obstructions.
- Stock up on non-perishable food items that do not require cooking. Have a manual can opener on hand.
- For those with well service, have a case of bottled water on hand. Fill any bathtubs and extra pitchers with water as well.
- Keep a battery-powered radio tuned to a local station for weather and outage updates.
- Be sure to charge all cell phones before the storm hits. Sign up for alerts from your local Emergency Management Agency. Also, make sure you’re enrolled in our outage texting program,TextTCEMC. Learn more at tri-countyemc.com/outage-texting.
- Have a first-aid kit and several days’ worth of prescriptions handy. Those who depend on electricity for medical devices may need to relocate until power is restored.
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