Spring Safety Checklist — Living Alone

Spring brings storms, allergies, and outdoor hazards. Complete these 15 items to stay safe as the season changes.

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CriticalImportantNice to Have

Home Exterior

Inspect roof for winter damage and missing shinglesCritical
Clean gutters and downspouts of winter debrisImportant
Check exterior walls and foundation for cracksImportant
Test outdoor lighting and replace burned-out bulbsImportant

Garden & Yard

Clear yard of fallen branches and debris from winterImportant
Check for uneven walkways or pavers that may have shifted from frost heaveCritical
Inspect outdoor power tools before first useImportant
Check for standing water around your home that could breed mosquitoesNice to Have

Emergency Prep

Review and update emergency contact listCritical
Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectorsCritical
Refresh emergency kit — replace expired food, water, and batteriesCritical
Review severe weather plan for tornadoes and thunderstormsCritical
Set up daily check-ins with ImAlive for spring storm seasonCritical

Health

Stock up on allergy medication and check expiry datesImportant
Schedule annual physical and any overdue medical appointmentsImportant

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the biggest spring hazards for people living alone?

Severe storms (tornadoes, thunderstorms), slip-and-fall hazards from wet surfaces, and allergic reactions. Having a daily check-in system like ImAlive ensures someone is alerted if you cannot call for help.

How often should I check my roof and gutters?

Inspect your roof and clean gutters at least twice a year — once in spring after winter damage and once in fall before winter. Look for missing shingles, cracks, and blocked downspouts.

Should I update my emergency kit every spring?

Yes. Replace expired food, water, batteries, and medications. Spring is also a good time to review your emergency contact list and ensure your ImAlive contacts are up to date.

What should I do if I find damage to my roof after winter?

Cover any exposed areas with a tarp to prevent water damage from spring rains and contact a roofing professional promptly. Do not attempt roof repairs yourself if you live alone — falls from ladders and roofs are a major cause of injury, especially without someone nearby to help.

How do I prepare for tornado season in spring?

Identify a safe room in your home, ideally an interior room on the lowest floor with no windows. Stock it with water, a flashlight, a phone charger, and a weather radio. Practice getting to your safe room quickly and set up ImAlive check-ins during storm watches.

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