Two Days Out: Home Focus
With two days until the storm, your focus should shift from stocking up to preparing your home and finalizing family plans. Most supply runs should be complete; now it's about protecting your property and ensuring your family is ready.
Protect Your Pipes
Locate all exterior faucets and disconnect garden hoses. Know where your main water shutoff is. If temperatures are expected to drop below 20°F, consider leaving cabinet doors open under sinks on exterior walls and allowing faucets to drip slightly.
Prepare Outdoor Spaces
Bring in outdoor furniture, decorations, and anything that could become a projectile in high winds. Cover outdoor plants that might not survive a hard freeze.
Check Your Heat
Ensure your heating system is working properly. If you have a fireplace, make sure it's clean and ready to use as a backup heat source. Stock firewood if applicable.
Plan for School and Work
Two days out, school closings may not yet be announced, but it's worth having a plan for childcare if schools close. Discuss with your employer any flexibility for remote work or schedule adjustments.
Prepare Your Pets
Bring outdoor pets inside or ensure they have adequate shelter. Stock extra pet food and water. Cold weather affects pets significantly, especially smaller animals.
Final Grocery Check
If you haven't stocked up yet, today is the last comfortable day to do so. Focus on simple, non-perishable foods that can be prepared without power if necessary.
