The snow stops, the wind drops, and the first instinct is to go outside and look at the damage. That is the moment to slow down. The most dangerous things after a winter storm are often invisible: a live wire under the snow, carbon monoxide from a generator, or a frozen pipe that has not burst yet. If you are asking what you should check after a winter storm, the answer is an order, not a list: people first, then power and air, then structure, then water, and then everything you can replace.
I have found that most storm injuries and losses come from skipping the order. Someone clears a driveway next to a downed line, or runs a generator in a garage to stay warm, or throws out nothing in the fridge and eats it a day later.
This article is general information, not emergency or engineering advice. Follow your local authorities first, and call emergency services if anyone is in danger.
It covers a quick answer, a priority checklist, power and carbon monoxide data, a food safety table, a home and pipe inspection guide, mistakes to avoid, and a short FAQ.
What should you check after a winter storm?
After a winter storm, check on people first, then stay away from downed power lines, make sure carbon monoxide risks are controlled, inspect the roof, walls, and pipes for damage, check food safety, and document damage with photos. Do not run a generator indoors, and do not touch anything near a fallen line.
What is the right order?
| Priority | Check | Why |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | People and pets | Look for injuries, cold stress, and anyone who needs help |
| 2 | Power lines | If power lines are down, don’t touch them |
| 3 | Carbon monoxide | Heating and generator risks are highest after outages |
| 4 | Structure | Roof, ceilings, and walls for stress or leaks |
| 5 | Pipes and water | Frozen or burst lines |
| 6 | Food | Fridge and freezer safety |
| 7 | Documentation | Photos before cleanup |
What are the power and carbon monoxide rules?
| Hazard | Guidance |
|---|---|
| Downed lines | Stay 35 feet away from downed lines and anything they are touching, and report them to the utility |
| Generator location | Place a generator at least 20 feet from the home and away from windows and vents |
| Generator use | Never run a generator inside a home or garage, or connect it to your home’s electrical system |
| CO alarms | Install working detectors on every level of the home |
| Heating | Never use a gas oven, grill, or other appliance not intended for indoor heating |
| Surges | Unplug appliances, except the refrigerator and freezer, to reduce power surges |
If anyone feels dizzy, has a headache, or feels sick indoors, leave the building and call emergency services.
What about food safety?
| Item | Guidance |
|---|---|
| Closed refrigerator | Keeps food cold for about 4 hours |
| Full freezer | About 48 hours, or about 24 if half full |
| Order of eating | Eat perishable food from the refrigerator first, then the freezer |
| Testing food | Never taste food or rely on appearance or smell to judge safety |
| Thermometer | Use a thermostat in the fridge and freezer so you know the temperature when power returns |
| Unsure | Contact your local extension office |
When in doubt, throw it out.
What should you inspect at home?
These checks come from general home safety practice, not from the sources above, so confirm with a licensed professional if you see damage.
| Area | What to look for |
|---|---|
| Roof and ceiling | Sagging, new stains, drips, or ice buildup at the eaves |
| Walls and windows | New cracks, bowing, or wet patches |
| Pipes | Frost on exposed pipes, no water flow, or bulging |
| Gutters | Ice or debris pulled loose |
| Chimney and vents | Blockages from snow or ice |
| Trees and branches | Cracks hanging over the house or lines |
| Appliances | Water around the furnace or water heater |
Thaw a frozen pipe slowly with warm air, never an open flame, and shut off the main water if a pipe has burst. Do not climb onto a snowy or icy roof.
What mistakes should you avoid?
- Going near downed lines. Assume they are live.
- Heating with a gas oven. It can release carbon monoxide.
- Cleaning before documenting. Photograph damage first for insurance.
- Ignoring neighbors. Check on older or isolated people if it is safe.
Frequently asked questions
Should you call 911 about a power outage?
No. Report downed lines, but do not call 911 just to ask about an outage.
How long is food safe without power?
About 4 hours in a closed fridge and about 48 hours in a full freezer.
What if the power comes back after a surge?
Check appliances, and call an electrician if you smell burning or see scorch marks.
Bottom line
Check people first, stay clear of power lines, control carbon monoxide, then inspect the house, pipes, and food. Photograph damage, ask for help when needed, and never use a generator indoors.
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