Hurricane Preparedness
Living through winter storm Uri (2021), Hurricane Harvey (2017), Hurricane Ike (2008), and countless flash floods in Houston has made me start thinking about preparedness generally. Hurricane season will soon be upon us in the Gulf Coast region. Add to that calculus a global pandemic. There has to be things we can do well before a storm is in the Gulf and the grocery store lines are long.
Experts recommend we have two survival kits ready at all times and we just top off when an emergency is declared.
WHAT DO YOU NEED IN YOUR SURVIVAL KITS:
Stay-at-home kit: Include everything your family needs to stay at home for two weeks, keeping in mind that after a disaster, roads are often impassable and grocery/home supply stores are highly picked over.
Water: one gallon per person, per day (14-day supply)
Food: non-perishable, easy-to-prepare items (14-day supply)
Flashlight
Battery-powered or hand-crank radio (NOAA Weather Radio, if possible)
Extra batteries
Whistle
Family-size first aid kit with Advil and Tylenol
Tool kit (with wrench/pliers to turn off utilities)
Cell phone
Chargers and fully-charged charging block
Cash
N95 or surgical masks
Hand sanitizer and sanitizing wipes
Matches/lighter in a waterproof container
Rain gear/boots
Duct tape
Scissors
Entertainment items like puzzles, Taboo, books, cards (no electricity) for adults and children
Blankets
Evacuation kit or a "go bag": This should be lightweight and something you can just grab and take with you if you must leave your home quickly. Think three days of supplies but also keep in mind that it may be difficult to return after a disaster; you might be able to buy things you need outside of the disaster area but you may not be able to get home for some time.
Water: one gallon per person, per day (3-day supply)
Food: non-perishable, easy-to-prepare items (3-day supply)
Flashlight
Battery-powered or hand-crank radio (NOAA Weather Radio, if possible)
Extra batteries
Smaller first aid kit with Advil and Tylenol
Multi-purpose tool
Extra cash and credit cards
N95 or surgical masks
Hand sanitizer and sanitizing wipes
Matches/lighter in a waterproof container
Rain gear/boots
Cell phone
Chargers and fully-charged charging block
Personal hygiene items such as a toothbrush, toothpaste, toilet paper, tampons or pads, soap, shampoo, etc.
Complete change of clothes and sturdy shoes per person
Sleeping bag or warm blanket per person
Sunscreen and mosquito repellent
Important documents like homeowner’s insurance policy, identification, immunization records, proof you live in/own your home, and pictures of your home undamaged in a waterproof container
Consider the needs of all family members and add supplies to your kits.
Medical supplies and prescription medications (hearing aids, with extra batteries, glasses, contact lenses, syringes, etc.)
Baby supplies (bottles, formula, baby food, diapers)
Pet supplies (collar, leash, ID, food, carrier, bowl)
