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