Hurricane Readiness Kit Preparation

Hurricane season is upon us here in Florida. That means that big storms could be rolling in any time. While there is usually at least a week of warning, you do not want to wait until you hear about a storm to get ready for it. One major reason is that natural disasters often limit supplies because everyone else is trying to prepare as well. Therefore, you are better off preparing now for a storm that may or may not come. As the saying goes, “Better to have it and not need it than need it and not have it.” As part of taking care of your health, today we are discussing some things that you should have on hand in a hurricane readiness kit to keep you and your family safe and protected in the event of a hurricane.

Hurricane Readiness Kit

The items listed below are by no means exhaustive. This is an essentials-only list to get you started in your hurricane readiness. This list also covers the bare minimums of each item. In the event of a storm, high winds may have caused damage to trees, houses, and other infrastructure, making it difficult for you to get out of your home. Flooding can also cause problems with evacuation. We recommend you plan for two weeks of sheltering in place. If you can evacuate, prepare a to-go hurricane readiness kit for at least three days. That said, here are some items you should have in a hurricane readiness kit.

Water

Humans cannot live without water. You must plan for at least one gallon of water per person per day. That means, for a family of four to shelter in place for fourteen days, you will need at least fifty-six gallons of water. It sounds like a lot, but you will be thankful for the stash if worse comes to worst.

Food

Only keep non-perishable food items that you can prepare easily. Remember that in the event of a storm, running water and electricity may be unavailable.

Flashlights & Batteries

We do not recommend candles as they can quickly become an additional safety hazard. Along the same lines, keep a solar-powered power bank that you can use to charge your phones. Having the ability to contact others, including family or emergency services, can be lifesaving. Your phone can also act as a weather radio to keep track of the storm.

First Aid Kit

In the event of a larger storm, window damage can cause injuries to those inside the home. For this and other possible injuries, you need a first aid kit on hand with some basic supplies like bandages and antiseptic. Make sure you also have enough reserves of any medications you or your family need.

Cash & Fuel

If you can evacuate, gas pumps and ATMs may not be operable. The same goes for electronic payments as power lines, or the internet may be down. This means that you will need to use cash for any transactions and have spare fuel available to fill up on the road. Only take what you need but remember to keep supplies covered and out of sight. After a storm, short supplies can lead to desperation and looting. Your only priority is to keep you and your family safe.