Storms will come, and storms will go. But the worst ones? They can leave behind downed trees, dangerous conditions, and power outages. Here are some smart, simple ways to help you stay safe and ready when severe weather strikes.
1. Pick Up a Spare Tank
A spare tank of propane can save the day when it comes to severe weather. Whether you're powering a grill, a generator, or a patio heater, having extra fuel on hand can keep you cooking, warm, and a step ahead. This is important especially when you anticipate that the power will be out for an extended amount of time. If you can, pick up the tank well in advance of the store rush which often comes with storms. It’s better to have extra fuel than to run out when stores or closed or sold out.
2. Stock Up on Food and Water
Canned and shelf-stable foods such as canned stews, soups, beans, meats, and vegetables are essential when it comes to weathering the storm. These all heat up beautifully on the grill or griddle. You can even put your grill’s side burner to good use by using it to boil water, making it safe to use in coffee, tea, instant oatmeal, or even just for drinking water if tap access is not available.
3. Gather Your Tools
When a storm hits and the power goes out, the last thing you want is to scramble for supplies in the dark. Keep all your grilling and food prep essentials in one easy-to-grab bin so you're ready when the power goes out. Use a large plastic container to store pots, skillets, napkins, paper plates, plastic utensils and butane lighters. Don’t forget to include an LED lantern or flashlight so you can still see after the sun goes down.
4. Power Up with Propane Appliances
Think beyond the grill when it comes to preparing for severe weather. Propane-powered appliances can help you stay comfortable and connected during an outage. Propane generators can power essentials like fridges, lights, and phone chargers. If your indoor heating is affected, patio heaters or propane fire pits offer a reliable way to stay warm and make your outdoor space a safe, usable area for gathering or cooking.
5. Safety First
Always be sure to secure your propane appliances and tanks against high winds. Never use these appliances indoors or in a garage and never store or use a propane tank indoors. Appliances fueled by propane can create deadly carbon monoxide gas if used in enclosed areas. Stick to outdoor use only, and keep areas well-ventilated.
You can’t control the weather, but you can control how ready you are. Stock up, prep smart, and fuel your storm plan with Blue Rhino. To learn more about protective measures to take before, during, and after a weather emergency, visit Ready.gov.
Published: 2018.04.05 | Last updated: 2025.05.08