Natural disasters don’t wait for anyone and can strike unsuspectedly. While hurricanes typically form with enough time for locals of the area to prepare or evacuate, you never really know where exactly the crisis will hit. Those spaghetti plots you often see broadcasted during hurricane season show many different routes the hurricane may take. With so many different paths and chances of being affected by a hurricane’s wrath, why not take the time to tackle hurricane season head-on? In the end, it is best to be prepared ahead of time, just in case!
How do I Prepare for a Hurricane?
Nearly half of American households do not have an emergency plan in place, but that doesn’t stop Mother Nature from wreaking havoc. If you live in a region where hurricane season is often talked about, you will significantly benefit from making your very own hurricane kit. Since hurricane season lasts from June 1st to November 30th, you will need to ensure you have the proper supplies on hand. Find a kit, plastic box, duffle bags, or anything of the sort to begin compiling your hurricane kit.
What You Will I Need?
Hurricane kits may vary a bit from kit to kit, but the essential items should always be accounted for, including:
- Water – have at least one gallon per person per day. If you plan to evacuate, a three-day supply should be good, but if you’re hunkering down at home, be sure to have a two-week supply handy.
- Non-perishable food – this includes canned food, boxed food, evaporated milk.
- A hand-crank radio – this way, if the power goes out, you can still receive updates.
- Flashlights and extra batteries – again, in the even the power lines are affected, you will still need to be able to see. Batteries can come in handy for multiple devices such as flashlights, a portable phone charger, clock radio, and so on.
- Candles and matches or lighters – give yourself some more light if the house becomes dark.
- Important documents – think birth certificates, insurance documents, deed or lease to your home, medical information, social security cards, driver’s license or passports, list of emergency contacts. It is also a smart idea to have your evacuation zone and/or flood zone on hand, as well as the closest shelter to your address.
- Fuel – whether you plan to use this for your car or generator, gasoline is one of the items that people flock to the quickest, so make sure you get this before gas stations in your area run out or close down.
- Personal hygiene items – toilet paper, wipes, soap, menstruation items, extra towels, hand sanitizer, paper towel.
- First aid kit and medications – be sure to have supplies to treat any possible wounds as well as any of the daily medications you need.
- Cell phones and chargers – while you may not be able to charge your phone in the outlet, invest in a portable charger so you can remain in contact with loved ones and keep current on official statements. Don’t forget to pack extra charging cables.
- Tools – having some tools in your kit may prove beneficial. A multi-purpose knife duct tape, scissors, gloves, face masks.
Other Supplies You May Need
While the list above is must-have items for an emergency hurricane kit, you may require packing a few more things to better cater to your family’s needs. Baby supplies should include milk or formula, blankets, diapers, and baby medication. Or say you have a household of animal rescues, pack enough food for all pets, their documents, county licenses, medications, etc. You may also want to consider ponchos, rain boots, extra clothes, and blankets. If you are able to withdraw some cash before evacuating or hunkering down. ATMs may be inaccessible with worsening weather conditions. Pack an emergency hurricane now, thank yourself later!
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