Hurricane Kit and Evacuation Tips

Millions have Mandatory Evacuations this week with Hurricane Dorian already hitting the Bahamas! With prime Hurricane season upon us, my husband and I have been talking about needing to start prepping ourselves, ahead of time, just in case! It’s better to be prepared BEFORE anything is even projected to head your way because stores sell out of your needed items quickly. Waiting in those lines also takes away from being able to prep your home better!! We will cover a little of all of this today in what you need in your Hurricane Kit whether you are sticking through the hurricane or leaving! If there is a Mandatory Evacuation, get out!! Hurricane season lasts through November!

Your Hurricane Kit should include:

Water Jugs and Bottles – one gallon of water per person per day for at least three days, for drinking and sanitation.
Food – Include Food that does not need to be refrigerated, non perishable. If you loose power, you will still need to eat! Get at least a three-day supply of food.
Manual can opener for food
Paper cups, plates, paper towels and plastic utensils
Flashlight
First aid kit
Medications you are prescribed and include some Non-prescription medications such as pain relievers
Infant formula, bottles, diapers, wipes, diaper rash cream, food and snacks
Pet food and extra water for your pet
Extra batteries
Generator
Extra Fuel for car and generator
Whistle to signal for help
Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties for personal sanitation
Cell phone Battery Operated Chargers
Books, games, puzzles or other activities for children
Cash
Important family documents such as copies of insurance policies, identification and bank account records saved electronically or in a waterproof, portable container
Sleeping bag or warm blanket for each person
Complete change of clothing appropriate for your climate and sturdy shoes

Once you take a look at this list of items, consider what unique needs your family might have, such as supplies for pets, seniors, babies, etc!

Other Things to consider, whether you stick through the storm or leave:

Let your Neighbors know if you are leaving or staying
Prep Your Yard. Maintain your trees, brush, and yard decorations. Make sure there isn’t anything that could destroy your home.
Cut and Measure your window covers so they are easier and faster to place up when a hurricane is close!
Prep your home! Cover windows, place sandbags, get valuable off the ground inside in case of flooding.

If you have to Evacuate:

Know your routes out before hand! You will need to leave immediately at that point!
Take your pets with you. If you can’t, DON’T leave your pets tied up to anything! If it floods, they need to be able to get to higher ground.
Pack to go with you:
- Snacks, less stops with heavy traffic when everyone is leaving at once.
- Cash
- Your driver’s license
- The deed to your house
- Proof of insurance
- Medical records
- Passports
- Social security cards
- A list of personal contacts