Don’t wait until a hurricane or severe weather is about to hit to put together an emergency supply kit. Sentinel recommends stocking up on these items well in advance of the June 1 official start of hurricane season, or as soon as possible.
Your emergency supply kit should include enough non-perishable food, a manual can opener, and a gallon of water per person per day to last three to seven days. Keep as many of these items stored together, in a safe, dry and accessible place in your home.
- Copies of insurance papers and identification sealed in a watertight plastic bag
- Flashlight and extra batteries
- Cell phone charger or power pack
- First-aid kit and book
- Weather radio and batteries
- Supply of prescription medicines
- Sleeping bag or blankets
- Changes of clothes
- Wrench or pliers to turn off water
- Hygiene items such as toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, deodorant and anti-bacterial wipes or gel
- Cash and change
- Extra house and car keys
- Pet supplies including food, water, leashes, bedding, muzzle and vaccination records
- Books, games or playing cards
Next, make and rehearse plans for where to go and what to do during and after the hurricane. The plan should include details about where to meet, how to get in touch with one another, evacuation plans, what to do with pets and how to notify employers/employees after an emergency.
