With Hurricane Irene barreling up the coast, now is a good time to be sure you are prepared for the worst. Below is a list of items you should have on hand for the oncoming storm.
PREPAREDNESS FOR YOUR FAMILY
- At least a 3-day supply of water (one gallon per person, per day)
- At least a 3-day supply of non-perishable food (and can opener for food if kit contains canned food)
- Evacuation route and meeting place if separated
- Flashlight/lantern and extra batteries
- First-aid kit
- Battery-powered or hand crank radio (NOAA Weather Radio if possible)
- Extra batteries of all sizes
- Whistle to signal for help
- At least a 14-day supply of prescription medication and contact lenses
- Toiletries, moist wipes, hygiene items, garbage bags and plastic ties for personal sanitation
- Emergency tools: wrench or pliers to turn off utilities and multi-purpose tool
- Cell phone with chargers
- Credit card and cash
- Copies of personal documents such as insurance policies, identification, bank records, passports, and birth certificates in a waterproof, portable container
- Special items for infant, elderly or disabled family members
- Extra set of car and house keys
- At least, one change of clothing and shoes per person
- One blanket or sleeping bag per person
- Pet food and extra water for your pet
PREPAREDNESS FOR YOUR PROPERTY
- Cover all windows with pre-cut plywood or hurricane shutters
- Bring all outdoor furniture, garbage cans, and any other loose backyard items indoors
- Secure large outdoor items that cannot be brought indoors by tying them down
- Turn off all propane tanks
- Turn off all utilities as instructed by authorities
- Turn the refrigerator’s thermostat to the coldest setting and keep doors closed and cover with a thick comforter to help further insulate the refrigerator
- Install a generator for emergency power
- Reinforce garage doors to help fight off high winds
The above tips were collected from FEMA and Plymouth Rock Assurance. These tips will help minimize the damage from a hurricane and make it easier for you to rebuild if necessary after the storm.
