Day Three of Hurricane Preparedness Week: Emergency Disaster Kit

5/3/2022 (Permalink)

Be hurricane ready!

When preparing for hurricanes, having supplies to make it through the hurricane isn’t enough. Ensure you have supplies for the recovery period, which could be very long depending on the damage. In some cases, water, electricity and gas could be out for a day or even over a week. You may need to survive on your own for several days so having an emergency hurricane disaster kit in the event of a hurricane could be a life saver.

What is an Emergency Hurricane Disaster Kit?

An emergency hurricane disaster supply kit is a collection of basic items your household may need in the event of an emergency.

What Items Should Be in the Hurricane Emergency Disaster Kit?

• Cash-banks and ATMs may not be open or available for extended periods. 
• Water-at least one gallon per person per day for three to seven days, plus water for pets.
• Food-at least enough for three to seven days, including: Non-perishable packaged or canned food and juices, food for infants and the elderly, snack food, paper plates, plastic utensils. 
• Manual can opener (non-electric)
• Radio-battery powered and NOAA weather radio with extra batteries.
• Blankets, pillows etc. 
• Clothing-seasonal, rain gear/ sturdy shoes. 
• First Aid Kit-plus medicines, prescription drugs, vitamins
• Special items-for babies and the elderly. 
• Toiletries-hygiene items, moisture wipes, sanitizer.
• Flashlight and batteries.
• Keys
• A portable crank or solar-powered USB charger for your cell phones.
• Toys, books and games.
• Pet care items, proper identification, immunization records, ample food and water, medicine, a carrier or cage, leash.

Once you take a look at the basic items consider what unique needs your family might have, according to Federal Alliance for Safer Homes.

How Much of Each Should Be in Your Emergency hurricane Disaster Kit?

Have enough non-perishable food, water and medicine to last each person in your family a minimum of 3 days (store a longer than 3-day supply of water, if possible) to ensure your family's basic comfort and well-being.

How Should These Items be Safely Stored?

To assemble your kit store items in airtight plastic bags and put your entire disaster supplies kit in one or two easy-to-carry containers such as plastic bins or a duffel bag.

Where Should Your Emergency Hurricane Disaster Kit Be Kept?

This kit should be kept at home in a designated place and should be have it ready in case you have to leave your home quickly. Make sure all family members know where the kit is kept.

What Should You Do to Keep the Supplies Updated?

Remember to replace stored food and water every six months, keep a supply of fresh batteries on hand. Re-think your needs every year and update your kit as your family’s needs change.