
June 1, 2024
Remaining weather-ready and prepared for hurricane season is essential for ensuring the safety and well-being of you and your loved ones. Hurricanes can bring about unpredictable and life-threatening conditions, including severe winds, heavy rainfall, flooding, and power outages. Being prepared means having a comprehensive emergency kit and a well-thought-out plan. The first step in the process of being prepared this hurricane season is to build an emergency kit.
Build A Kit Emergency Preparedness
After an emergency, you may need to survive on your own for several days. Being prepared means having your own food, water, and other supplies to last for several days. A disaster supplies kit is a collection of basic items your household may need in the event of an emergency.
Make sure your emergency kit is stocked with the items on the checklist below. Download a printable version to take with you to the store. Once you review the basic items, consider any unique needs your family might have, such as supplies for pets or seniors.
Emergency Supply List
Basic Disaster Supplies Kit
To assemble your kit, store items in airtight plastic bags and put your entire disaster supplies kit in one or two easy-to-carry containers, such as plastic bins or a duffel bag.
Emergency Supply Kit
A basic emergency supply kit could include the following recommended items:
Water: One gallon per person per day for several days, for drinking and sanitation.
Food: At least a several-day supply of non-perishable food.
Battery-powered or hand crank radio: NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert.
Flashlight
First aid kit
Extra batteries
Whistle: To signal for help.
Dust mask: To help filter contaminated air.
Plastic sheeting, scissors, and duct tape: To shelter in place.
Moist towelettes, garbage bags, and plastic ties: For personal sanitation.
Wrench or pliers: To turn off utilities.
Manual can opener: For food.
Local maps
Cell phone with chargers and a backup battery
Additional Emergency Supplies
Consider adding the following items to your emergency supply kit based on your individual needs:
Soap, hand sanitizer, and disinfecting wipes
Prescription medications
Non-prescription medications (pain relievers, anti-diarrhea medication, antacids, laxatives)
Prescription eyeglasses and contact lens solution
Infant formula, bottles, diapers, wipes, and diaper rash cream
Pet food and extra water for your pet
Cash or traveler’s checks
Important family documents (copies of insurance policies, identification, and bank account records) saved electronically or in a waterproof, portable container
Sleeping bag or warm blanket for each person
Complete change of clothing appropriate for your climate and sturdy shoes
Fire extinguisher
Matches in a waterproof container
Feminine supplies and personal hygiene items
Mess kits, paper cups, plates, paper towels, and plastic utensils
Paper and pencil
Books, games, puzzles, or other activities for children
Maintaining Your Kit
After assembling your kit, remember to maintain it so it’s ready when needed:
Keep canned food in a cool, dry place. Store boxed food in tightly closed plastic or metal containers. Replace expired items as needed. Re-think your needs every year and update your kit as your family’s needs change.
Having these items on hand can make a significant difference in your ability to cope with the aftermath of a hurricane. In addition to your emergency kit, make sure to have a clear evacuation plan, stay informed through reliable weather updates, and heed any advisories or orders from local authorities. Being proactive and prepared can help mitigate the impacts of hurricanes and ensure that you and your family remain safe during hurricane season.
Comments