Severe weather can hit West Michigan quickly, leaving homeowners and businesses with little time to react. Whether you’re preparing for an incoming storm or dealing with the aftermath, having a clear plan in place can make all the difference.
At John Grace, we’ve helped families and businesses recover from storm damage across the region. We created this checklist to help you prepare ahead of time and know exactly what to do after a storm, so you can protect your property and reduce the risk of long-term damage.
Download and print this checklist to keep it somewhere accessible, especially during storm season.
SEVERE WEATHER TIPS – BEFORE THE STORM
PREVENTION & PREPARATION
EMERGENCY READINESS
- Identify safest shelter location (basement or interior room without windows)
- Create and practice a family emergency communication plan
- Know evacuation routes if severe damage or flooding occurs
- Sign up for local emergency alerts and weather notifications
- Know how to receive warnings (apps, NOAA radio, local news)
- Keep shoes and a flashlight near your bed during storm season
SUPPLIES STOCKED & READY
- Flashlights and extra batteries
- Portable phone chargers or backup power banks
- First aid kit and necessary medications
- Bottled water (1 gallon per person per day recommended)
- Non-perishable food for 2–3 days
- Blankets and basic hygiene supplies
- Battery-powered weather radio
- Fully charge phones before storms arrive
PREPARE & PROTECT PROPERTY
- Secure or bring inside outdoor furniture, grills, decorations, and loose yard items
- Trim weak or overhanging tree branches
- Clean gutters and downspouts
- Inspect roof for loose or damaged shingles
- Close and secure doors and windows
- Move valuables off basement floors in flood-prone areas
- Consider surge protectors for electronics
- Make sure sump pump is functioning properly
- Locate and clearly label main water shut-off valve
- Take photos or video of your home and valuables
REVIEW & SAVE IMPORTANT INFO
- Review insurance coverage details
- Save contact information for key resources like insurance and restoration resources
- Store important documents digitally or in waterproof containers
- Locate and label utility shut-offs
- Document home contents and valuables
SEVERE WEATHER TIPS – AFTER THE STORM
SAFETY FIRST + GUIDANCE
SAFETY FIRST
- Confirm safety of family members, neighbors, and pets
- Avoid downed power lines and standing water near electrical sources
- Watch for structural hazards (sagging ceilings, roof damage)
- Stay out of severely damaged buildings until declared safe
- Watch for gas odors and evacuate immediately if detected
- Wear proper footwear when walking debris areas
LIMIT DAMAGE — CHECK HAZARDS
- Check for interior and exterior damage
- Inspect for water leaks, broken pipes, or electrical hazards
- Shut off water supply if pipes are damaged
- Turn off electricity if water has entered the structure
- Cover broken windows or tarp roof if safe
- Seek expert help from John Grace if specialized equipment is needed
DOCUMENT DAMAGE
- Take photos and videos of all visible damage
- Maintain a written list of damaged items
- Keep receipts for emergency expenses
- Avoid discarding damaged materials until approved by insurance
- John Grace can assist with professional documentation
CONTACT SUPPORT RESOURCES
- Notify your insurance agent promptly
- Avoid signing contracts with door-to-door contractors
- Verify contractor licensing and insurance credentials
- John Grace Restoration can work directly with your insurance carrier and adjuster
PROFESSIONAL RESTORATION SUPPORT
- Call John Grace for 24/7 emergency response and free inspections.
- Our team can help with every step of your home or business restoration project
- Identify hidden moisture and structural damage
- Board up windows and tarp roofs to secure property from weather exposure
- Pack out and restore affected contents
- Coordinate mitigation and handle full reconstruction
CONTACT JOHN GRACE 24/7 – Grand Rapids 616-438-5315, Lakeshore 231-571-9501, Kalamazoo 269-254-8118
