Rain is in the forecast every day this week, reminding us all that hurricane season is here.
And, while we can expect unpredictable amounts of rain, wind and tropical storms… it’s time to ask yourself: Are you prepared if an emergency were to happen?
The Atlantic hurricane season lasts until November. Which means we’re only in the beginning stages – and we’ve already met Arthur, Bertha, Cristobol + Dolly. Thankfully, those felt more like socially-distanced waves.
While only two or three hurricanes will become a Category 3 strength or higher (a.k.a. considered to be major), it’s important to be prepared and to have a plan in place. Being prepared means having enough food, water, cash + supplies to last at least three days, maybe longer if you are in a hard-to-reach area and cannot evacuate to a safer location.
So, what should go in your kit? Each kit will depend on you and your families’ personal needs, but here are the essentials:
- Water — at least a gallon per person, per day
- Non-perishable food
- First aid kit
- Cash
- Prescription medicines + OTC medications
- Extra batteries
- Generator
- Matches in a waterproof container
- Basic toiletries
- Paper plates, plastic cups + utensils, paper towels
- Battery-powered or hand-cranked radio
- Sleeping bag or warm blanket for each person
- Flashlights or lantern
- Whistle to signal for help
- Manual can opener
- Local maps
- Pet and service animal supplies
- Baby supplies
- Extra pair of eyeglasses or contacts
- Change of clothes + raincoat
Other items that are not necessarily essential, but great to keep in your kit:
- Gatorade or Pedialyte
- Change of clothes for each person
- Fire extinguisher
- Important documents in a waterproof pouch
- Duct tape
- Toys, books + games
