Hurricane Preparedness Kit

Now that we are approaching the more active period of hurricane season from August to October, here is a list of the things that should be included when creating a hurricane preparedness kit.

First, a gallon of water per person per day for at least three days to one week; this is the most important thing to have in stock. When it comes to food, canned goods like Vienna sausages, spam, and canned or dried vegetables and fruits are great for during and after a storm. Canned milk is great to have as well. For smaller children and babies, stock up on their formulas, baby food and diapers for a whole week.

Also remember to get disposable plates, napkins and utensils. If you have pets remember to have enough food and water for them and provide shelter for them if they are not accepted at an animal shelter.

Make sure to have extra prescriptions of your medications ready and copies of important documents and seal them in a plastic waterproof bag to prevent water damage and loss.  Other essentials that are extremely necessary are batteries, lanterns and flashlights. You’ll definitely need them for nighttime situations. There are also toiletries like toothpaste, deodorant, soap and other personal hygiene items that you should stock up on.  Sunscreen is important for cleanup after the storm.

Also if you have a grill make sure you have propane or charcoal loaded for cooking outdoors.  Also keep in mind to get a NOAA Weather Radio to receive updates about the storm as the power might go out. With the possibility of the power going out make sure to get bleach to purify any non-bottled water that may contain impurities (2 drops of bleach for every quart of water, 4 drops for murky of cloudy water). You should also have a portable cooker if you do not own a grill. Stock up on extra cell phone batteries and/or have a car charger to charge your phone with your car. Your car should also have a full tank of gas in case you need to evacuate the area and don’t forget to properly prepare the spare tire.