A wet-weather plan is most useful when it addresses the routines a household cannot easily postpone.

In West Seattle and White Center, that may mean a commute, medication, childcare pickup or a refrigerator full of groceries.

Start by identifying which daily activities depend on electricity, internet access or a particular transit route.

Keep a working flashlight, charged power bank, essential contact numbers and a small supply of shelf-stable food.

Set aside drinking water and any medications or accessibility supplies your household needs.

If someone uses electrically powered medical equipment, make a backup plan with the appropriate care provider.

Do not wait until an outage to find out how your phone will receive emergency alerts.

King County Metro publishes winter guidance explaining that buses may be delayed, rerouted or canceled in snow and ice.

During severe conditions, Metro may operate an Emergency Snow Network focused on safer main roads.

That can change where a familiar bus stops, even when the weather improves later in the day.

Save the agency's winter service page and the trip details you use most often.

Households that drive should keep vehicle maintenance current and avoid unnecessary trips during dangerous conditions.

Never run a generator or charcoal grill inside a home, garage or enclosed space.

Carbon monoxide can accumulate without a visible warning, so follow equipment instructions and public safety guidance.

Check that smoke and carbon monoxide alarms work and that everyone knows how to exit the home.

Make a communication plan for children, older relatives and neighbors who may need assistance.

For Burien and Des Moines residents, a second route to work may be more valuable than an elaborate equipment list.

Practice the plan once and notice which parts depend on a single phone, car or person.

Preparedness works best when it is affordable, specific and reviewed before the storm.

Metro's winter guide is a reliable starting point for checking service changes.