As hurricane season approaches, residents are encouraged to prepare by gathering essential supplies and taking steps to protect their homes.
A hurricane kit should include several days’ worth of water—one gallon per person per day—non-perishable goods, flashlights, batteries, and a first aid kit.
It’s also important to refill prescription medications and save important documents electronically or in a waterproof container.
Having a fully charged phone and storing backup batteries is also recommended, as power outages could last for days.
Here is an easy checklist to use to build your kit:
- Water – one gallon of water per person per day for at least three days, for drinking and sanitation
- Food – at least a three-day supply of nonperishable food
- Battery-powered or hand-crank radio and an NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert.
- Flashlight
- First-aid kit
- Extra batteries
- Whistle to signal for help
- Dust mask to help filter contaminated air and plastic sheeting and duct tape to shelter in place
- Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties for personal sanitation
- Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities
- Manual can opener for food
- Local maps
- Cellphones with chargers and a backup battery
- Personal protective equipment such as masks, gloves, and hand sanitizer
For more information on hurricane kits, click here.
