Hurricane Checklist

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