Hurricane season brings wild winds, torrential rain, storm surges, and the possibility of days without power. Preparing for a hurricane requires gathering essential supplies and planning ahead to keep your family safe. This guide will walk you through hurricane prep step-by-step to make storm readiness simple.
Essential Supplies
- Stock up on Food and Water – Having enough food and water is critical when a hurricane hits. Plan for at least three gallons of water per person to last three days. Pack non-perishable foods like canned goods, energy bars, peanut butter, dried fruits, and nuts. Don’t forget a manual can opener! Charge up your cooler with ice to keep perishable foods cold. Consider special dietary needs for family members. Pets will need extra food and water, too. Stash some comfort food as well, like cookies, candy bars, and chips, to lift spirits. Don’t forget a hip flask full of your favorite tipple to warm the belly.
- Gather Critical Gear – In addition to food and water, gather other hurricane must-haves. Stock up on batteries, flashlights, matches, candles, and a battery-powered radio to stay informed if the power goes out. A first aid kit, prescription medications, toilet paper, and personal hygiene items will also be essential. Keep cash on hand since ATMs may not work during power outages. A deck of cards and board games can keep kids entertained.
- Secure Important Documents – Gather critical documents like insurance policies, identification, bank information, and medical records. Scan them or take photos, then store them somewhere safe, like a watertight container or a cloud drive. This will make the claims process much smoother if your home sustains damage.
Prepare Your Home
- Board Up Windows – One of the best ways to minimize hurricane damage is to secure windows and doors. Buy plywood and pre-cut boards specifically made for your windows and glass doors. Drill holes in the boards so they can be quickly installed with screws when a storm is approaching. Garage doors are also vulnerable, so reinforce them with horizontal beams.
- Trim Trees and Secure Loose Items – Do a thorough walk around your property well before the storm hits. Trim back tree limbs that could break off and damage your home.
- Protect Valuables – Move vehicles, boats, RVs, and other valuables into a garage or enclosed space if possible. Elevate furniture and electronics off the floor in case of flooding. Unplug small appliances and electronics to avoid power surge damage. Place irreplaceable items like photo albums and heirlooms in watertight plastic bins up high.
Make an Evacuation Plan
If you live in an evacuation zone, make preparations in case officials order you to leave. Map out several evacuation routes in advance and identify shelters or family/friends you can stay with inland. Keep your car’s gas tank at least half full. Pack a ‘go bag’ with essential documents, medications, cash, change of clothes and phone chargers. If you are ordered to evacuate, leave right away to avoid getting trapped by flooding.
Preparing for a hurricane takes some time and effort, but it is well worth it for your safety and peace of mind. By stocking supplies, securing your home, and gathering essential gear ahead of time, you can ride out the storm in relative comfort.
