Protecting your home from extreme weather
Climate change increases the risk of structural damage from storms, floods, snow loads, and wildfires.
Inspect your home regularly: seal windows, reinforce doors, secure roof tiles, and clear drains to reduce flood risk. In flood-prone areas, move electrical outlets higher up walls and store valuables above ground level. Secure loose outdoor objects and trees to prevent damage during high winds. Consider long-term adaptations like water barriers, storm shutters, or fire-resistant landscaping to protect your home.
Emergency shelters & climate-adapted housing
If your home becomes uninhabitable, you’ll need temporary shelter: tents, tarps, cars, or public evacuation centers. Know where your nearest emergency shelters are. Keep a compact shelter kit: sleeping bag, tarp or tent, ground mat, thermal blanket, and extra clothing (see Go Bag). Climate-adapted housing includes passive heating/cooling designs, insulation, and renewable energy integration. Plan for shelter in both rural and urban contexts; adaptability matters more than comfort.
Off-grid energy solutions & renewable power
Grid failure can occur during storms, cyberattacks, or energy shortages; prepare to meet basic power needs independently. Solar chargers, crank chargers and battery banks can keep phones, lights, and radios running during outages. If you have land or community access, small-scale wind, hydro, or solar systems can offer long-term independence.
Alternative heat sources are important in cold regions: wood stoves, gas heaters, or paraffin burners (with ventilation). Candles and oil lamps are fallback options, but always use these with fire safety precautions and proper airflow.
Fire-making & alternative heating methods
Knowing how to make fire safely and efficiently is critical for heat, cooking, and morale. Learn at least two fire-starting techniques: matches, lighters, flint and steel, ferro rods, or solar magnification. Carry tinder (cotton, birch bark, dryer lint) and kindling in your emergency bag; dry materials are often hard to find during crises. In cold regions, heating a small, well-insulated room is better than struggling to heat the whole house.
DIY heaters can provide temporary warmth, but never leave them unattended.