Supplies you need to prepare for a hurricane
Ahead of potentially devastating storms this hurricane season, the Red Cross recommends having the following supplies on hand:
- Water: At least a 3-day supply; one gallon per person per day
- Food: At least a 3-day supply of non-perishable, easy-to-prepare food
- Flashlight
- Battery-powered or hand-crank radio (NOAA Weather Radio, if possible)
- Extra batteries
- First aid kit
- Medications (7-day supply) and medical items (hearing aids with extra batteries, glasses, contact lenses, syringes, cane)
- Multi-purpose tool
- Copies of personal documents (insurance policies, birth certificates, lease or deed to home)
- Sanitation and personal hygiene items
- Emergency blanket
- Insect repellent and sunscreens
- Baby supplies (bottles, formula, baby food, diapers)
- Rain gear
What safety precautions should you take before a hurricane?
In their hurricane safety checklist, the Red Cross advises:
- Listen to NOAA Weather Radio for critical information from the National Weather Service
- If your area is told to evacuate, evacuate
- Check your disaster supplies and replace or restock as needed
- Fill your car’s gas tank
- Turn the refrigerator and freezer in the coldest setting and keep them closed as much as possible so food will last longer if power goes out
- Bring any outdoor furniture inside
- Close your windows, doors and hurricane shutters
- Board up all windows and doors with plywood
- Learn about your community’s hurricane response plan
- At the very least, have an emergency “go bag” at the ready.
Hurricane safety tips for pets
The Humane Society of the United States also put together a disaster plan for your pets. Their recommendations include:
- Make sure that cats and dogs are wearing collars and identification tags that are up to date
- Put your cellphone number on your pet’s tag (or a relative/friend’s number in case you need to evacuate)
- Find a safe place to stay ahead of time
- Never assume you will be allowed to bring your pet to an emergency shelter — check with local officials in advance to find out about pet-friendly shelters
- Consider a kennel or veterinarian’s office or contact hotels and motels
- Bring your pet with you if you evacuate
- Stock enough food and water for each pet for at least five days
- Don’t forget to bring your pet’s medications and a sturdy leash or carrier