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