Things To Have In Case of a Hurricane

An action plan and a well-stocked disaster preparation kit are highly recommended things to have on hand in case of a hurricane. Having the whole family ready can make preparations once warnings are issued much easier. The following items can be extremely helpful in an emergency situation. It is best to store these items in sturdy, easy-to-carry containers such as backpacks, duffle bags, and/or plastic totes.

Disaster Preparation Kit:

• Cash: banks and ATMs may not be open or available for extended periods after the storm has passed
• Important documents in a waterproof container: including insurance and medical records, bank account numbers, Social Security cards, etc.
• Water: at least one gallon per person for 3 to 7 days
• Food: at least enough for 3 to 7 days, including non-perishable packaged or canned food, snack food, non-electric can opener and vitamins
• Paper plates and plastic utensils
• First Aid Kit/Medicines/Prescription Drugs
• Toiletries/hygiene items/moisture wipes
• Battery-operated radio
• Tools
• Flashlight batteries and/or glow sticks
• 10 X 10 foot tarp
• Roll of duct tape
• Blankets/pillows, etc
• Clothing, including seasonal/rain gear/sturdy shoes
• Keys
• Vehicle with full tank of gas and emergency supplies
• Special items for babies and the elderly
• Toys, books and games
• Pet care items: including proper I.D. and immunization records, ample food and water, a carrier or cage and leash
• Keep your cell phones fully charged
• Fill bathtub and other large containers with water to ensure a supply for sanitary purposes

Please note, if your area is in imminent danger of a hurricane, evacuation announcements should be taken very seriously. If local authorities request a mandatory evacuation, residents should leave their home immediately and seek safety inland by following posted evacuation routes or go to the nearest hurricane-approved shelter.

If evacuation is not mandatory, the Disaster Preparation Kit above will be one of the most important things to have on hand in case of a hurricane.