When Pacific Northwest storms approach, preparation can mean the difference between minor inconvenience and major property damage. As restoration experts serving Portland for over three decades, we’ve seen how proper preparation prevents the worst storm damage. Use this comprehensive checklist to protect your property before severe weather hits.
48-72 Hours Before the Storm
Property Documentation
- Take photos/videos of property condition
- Review insurance policy coverage
- Update home inventory list
- Store important documents in waterproof container
- Save emergency contacts in multiple locations
Outdoor Preparation
- Clear gutters and downspouts
- Trim hazardous tree branches
- Secure or store outdoor furniture
- Tie down or bring in trash bins
- Cover sensitive plants/landscaping
- Clear storm drains near property
- Check roof for loose shingles
- Secure any loose siding
Pro Tip: Pay special attention to trees near power lines or structures. Even healthy branches can become projectiles in strong winds.
Indoor Preparation
- Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
- Check sump pump operation
- Clean and test backup sump pump
- Inspect basement/crawl space for leaks
- Check window and door seals
- Verify proper attic ventilation
- Clear dryer vents
- Test backup generator if available
24-48 Hours Before the Storm
Emergency Supplies Check
- Flashlights and extra batteries
- Battery-powered or hand-crank radio
- First aid supplies
- Prescription medications
- Non-perishable food
- Bottled water (1 gallon per person per day)
- Manual can opener
- Basic tools
- Emergency phone chargers
- Battery banks
Communication Preparation
- Charge all mobile devices
- Review family emergency plan
- Update emergency contact list
- Check emergency radio batteries
- Download weather apps
- Save restoration contact: 503-201-7337
Property Protection Measures
- Move valuable items to higher ground
- Waterproof basement items
- Clear window wells
- Check sump pump battery backup
- Position sandbags if needed
- Close storm shutters if available
- Park vehicles in garage/safe location
- Fill bathtubs and large containers with water
12-24 Hours Before the Storm
Final Property Checks
- Test all emergency lighting
- Verify backup power systems
- Check emergency heat source
- Secure all windows and doors
- Move vehicles to high ground
- Fill gas tanks and spare containers
- Test weather radio
- Review evacuation routes
Indoor Safety Measures
- Set refrigerator/freezer to coldest settings
- Clean tubs and fill with water
- Gather flashlights and batteries
- Position emergency supplies
- Charge all devices
- Check carbon monoxide detectors
- Clear space around heating units
- Locate utility shutoff points
Utility Preparations
- Know utility shutoff locations
- Have shutoff tools readily available
- Clear access to electrical panel
- Test backup power transfer switch
- Check gas line connections
- Verify sump pump operation
- Test backup water systems
Final Hours Before Storm
Last-Minute Checklist
- Monitor local weather updates
- Secure all exterior doors
- Close interior doors
- Unplug sensitive electronics
- Position emergency lighting
- Review evacuation plans
- Keep pets close and secure
- Fill vehicles with fuel
Safety Station Setup
- Position emergency supplies centrally
- Ensure all family members know locations
- Place flashlights strategically
- Post emergency numbers visibly
- Keep shoes near beds
- Position emergency radios
- Prepare pet emergency kits
During the Storm
Active Monitoring
- Watch for signs of water intrusion
- Listen for unusual sounds
- Monitor news and weather updates
- Check sump pump operation
- Watch for power fluctuations
- Note any structural concerns
- Document any damage
Safety Priorities
- Stay away from windows
- Avoid using candles
- Keep children and pets safe
- Stay off corded phones
- Avoid electrical equipment if lightning
- Use flashlights instead of flames
- Follow official instructions
Post-Storm Assessment
Immediate Checks
- Check for water intrusion
- Look for structural damage
- Document any damage with photos
- Check utilities
- Monitor for gas leaks
- Inspect roof when safe
- Check basement/crawl space
- Note any flooding
Property Protection
- Cover damaged areas
- Remove standing water
- Begin drying processes
- Secure broken windows/doors
- Document all damage
- Contact insurance company
- Call for professional assessment
Emergency Response Protocol
If you discover storm damage:
- Ensure everyone’s safety
- Document the damage
- Prevent further damage if possible
- Contact insurance provider
- Call restoration professionals
Pacific Water & Fire Restoration provides 24/7 emergency response throughout the Portland metro area. Our IICRC-certified professionals can:
- Assess storm damage
- Prevent secondary damage
- Begin immediate restoration
- Work with insurance
- Provide temporary repairs
- Offer long-term solutions
Contact Us for Help
- Emergency Response: 503-201-7337
- Free Storm Damage Assessment
- Professional Water Extraction
- Structural Drying Services
- Mold Prevention
- Complete Restoration Services
Don’t wait until damage worsens. Call 503-201-7337 for immediate emergency response. Our teams are ready 24/7 to help protect and restore your property.
Prevention Tips for Future Storms
Regular Maintenance
- Schedule bi-annual inspections
- Maintain trees and landscaping
- Keep gutters clean
- Check roof regularly
- Maintain proper drainage
- Update emergency supplies
- Review insurance coverage
- Test emergency systems
Professional Assessment
Contact us to schedule a free property assessment. We’ll help identify potential vulnerabilities and recommend specific preparations for your property.
Remember, preparation is your best defense against storm damage. Save our emergency number (503-201-7337) in your contacts now, before you need it.
