What are you doing about it?
Most people wait until the last minute to prepare for a hurricane. But why? Hurricane supplies are meant to last, so why not stock up on the main items ahead of time? Especially since you’ll use them anyway!
Things like water, batteries and gas… These are things you should pretty much start to put aside on June 1st each year in preparation for hurricane season.
In the chance we are lucky enough to not get a hurricane this season…then go ahead and drink your water, fill up your car or lawn mower, etc with the gas you have stored and use the batteries for your TV remotes, kids toys, etc.
The point is…it doesn’t hurt to prepare yourself for, at the least, the main items people will seek out AT THE LAST MINUTE when a storm is coming.
Below is a list of items you should consider gathering for your hurricane supplies. You can also download a checklist below. Keep in mind, you’ll want to protect vulnerable items from getting wet. So make sure you get a bin or ziploc type of bag to protect them from getting ruined by water damage.
- Water: At least a 3-day supply; Get one gallon per person per day
- Side note: Fill your bath tubs with water. This comes in handy when you need to brush your teeth and/or flush toilets when there’s no power! Recommend having a small, clean bucket you can scoop the water from the tub with, as well.
- Food: At least a 3-day supply of non-perishable, easy-to-prepare food
- Flashlight(s)
- Battery-powered or hand-crank radio (NOAA Weather Radio, if possible)
- Extra batteries
- First aid kit
- Medications (7-day supply) and medical items (hearing aids with extra batteries, glasses, contact lenses, syringes, cane)
- Multi-purpose tool
- Copies of personal documents (insurance policies, insurance claims contact numbers, birth certificates, lease or deed to home)
- Sanitation and personal hygiene items
- Emergency blanket
- Insect repellent and sunscreens
- Baby supplies (bottles, formula, baby food, diapers)
- Rain gear
What safety precautions should you take before a hurricane?
In their hurricane safety checklist, the Red Cross advises:
- Listen to NOAA Weather Radio for critical information from the National Weather Service
- If your area is told to evacuate, evacuate!
- Check your disaster supplies and replace or restock as needed
- Fill your car’s gas tank
- Turn the refrigerator and freezer in the coldest setting and keep them closed as much as possible so food will last longer if power goes out
- Bring any outdoor furniture inside
- Close your windows, doors and hurricane shutters
- Board up all windows and doors with plywood
- Learn about your community’s hurricane response plan
- At the very least, have an emergency “go bag” at the ready.
Hurricane safety tips for pets
The Humane Society of the United States also put together a disaster plan for your pets. Their recommendations include:
- Make sure that cats and dogs are wearing collars and identification tags that are up to date
- Put your cellphone number on your pet’s tag (or a relative/friend’s number in case you need to evacuate)
- Find a safe place to stay ahead of time
- Never assume you will be allowed to bring your pet to an emergency shelter — check with local officials in advance to find out about pet-friendly shelters
- Consider a kennel or veterinarian’s office or contact hotels and motels
- Bring your pet with you if you evacuate
- Stock enough food and water for each pet for at least five days
- Don’t forget to bring your pet’s medications and a sturdy leash or carrier
And don’t forget to download and print out your insurance carrier(s) claims contact information below: