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 Hurricane Katrina made Americans acutely aware of the vast destructive power of hurricanes—as well as the vital importance of advance emergency preparedness. In order to safeguard lives and property, people who live in hurricane zones need to develop detailed emergency plans, take steps to ensure their homes are better able to withstand a storm, and stock up on emergency supplies, including a well provisioned hurricane kit.
Make a Hurricane Plan
- Contact local disaster preparedness organizations for information on evacuation routes and the location of emergency shelters.
- Create a communication plan for contacting loved ones.
- Make provisions for pets and livestock.
- Review insurance coverage; take pictures of homes and property.
- Stock up on plywood and other items that can be used to protect buildings.
How to be More Prepared
- Don’t wait until a storm is on the horizon to gather emergency goods as they may be in short supply.
- Water, if packaged specifically for emergency use, can last up to five years.
- Food bars, MRE’s (meals ready to eat) and freeze-dried foods can also be purchased in advance.
- Keep emergency supplies in a place where they will remain dry and are easily accessible.
Hurricane Kit Necessities:
- Food
- Water (one gallon per person per day)
- First aid kit
- Flashlights and extra batteries
- Weather radio
- Cash
- Prescription medications
- Important documents in a waterproof bag
Suggested supplemental items:
- Blankets
- Ponchos
- Lantern and light sticks
- Tarps and plastic sheeting
- Rope
- Water purification tablets and/or water purifying filters.
- Portable stove
- Waterproof matches
- Duct tape
- 6-in-1 survival tool
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