Natural disasters, including hurricanes and tropical storms are unpredictable. Experts try to track hurricanes and predict landfalls and damage. But disasters can still surprise us, making preparation crucial for safety and survival. An emergency kit is a collection of essential items that help you survive as well as recover during emergencies like hurricanes. This kit is critical whether you are sheltering in place at home or evacuated to a shelter or other location away from home.
Hurricanes have unfortunately become the norm in Florida. And hurricane season in Florida happens every year between June and November. Peak activity in typically occurs in September. Some prospective hurricanes will stall in the oceans or stay off land. Others will affect the coastlines of the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic. In turn, preparedness is vital.
This article teaches about hurricane prep kit essentials for natural disasters. Remember that every person in your party (family, group, etc.) will need an emergency kit, so multiply the following by the number of people that will be with you.
Essential Survival Items: Water and Food
Water and food are the foundation of survival in emergencies.
Dehydration can happen quickly, and flood waters and/or compromised water lines are dangerous to drink. Provide at least 3 gallons of water per person (1 gallon per day for at least 3 days). If you are sheltering at home then make sure to have gallons of fresh water on hand. Each person should have one gallon of water per day for three days. Having water purification tablets or a portable water filter are also wise ideas, just in case you need more.
Non-perishable foods are also critical. You want to make sure each person has enough food for at least 3 days. Canned foods, dried fruits, nuts, and other non-perishable snacks keep you energetic, vital, and alive while storms rage outside. Protein bars and trail mix are high-protein, high-energy, easy to carry foods available for bulk purchase. Don’t forget a manual can opener and reusable, fold-away utensils.
First Aid Supplies, Medications, and Personal Hygiene
A first-aid kit is important to include in your emergency kit. Make sure it is full and has band-aids, ibuprofen/pain killers, antiseptic wipes, and instant cold packs, gauze, etc. These are essential first-aid supplies that should always be included in emergency kit. Don’t forget must-have medications as well as antacids, allergy meds, and insulin or inhalers for those suffer from chronic illnesses. Pack a bottle of daily multivitamins to maintain overall health, especially if you have to shelter for more than three days.
While the general recommendation is 3 days, it is wise to take enough necessary medication in case you cannot go back home for more than 3 days. Keeping them in the prescription bottles are recommended.
It is also a good idea to include hand sanitizer in case you do not have access to clean water and soap.
Personal hygiene products are important for both comfort and sanitary reasons. Bring each person’s toothbrush and toothpaste, feminine products if necessary, moist wipes, and smaller bottles of deodorant, shampoo, and bar soap. Keep loose items in Ziploc bags. Being hygienic will make you feel clean, comfortable, and “normal” while sheltering.
Communication, Power Supplies, and Important Documents (Plus Emergency Contacts)
Connecting with others in emergencies can be crucial to your survival. Sometimes, signal towers are damaged or disrupted in hurricanes, rendering cell phones useless. You want to make sure you have a way to stay informed so you know what is going on. Pack a small hand-crank or battery-powered radio, walkie-talkies, extra batteries, and a solar charger or portable USB power banks if you need power devices.
It is also important to bring a list of emergency contacts, including local services, in case you need to reach out for help.
Store extra sets of ID, insurance policies, medical records, bank info, cash, and other essential documents in a waterproof, sealed bag that easily fits into your emergency backpack.
Clothing and Comfort Items
Everyone should have an emergency kit with enough provisions for at least three days. Pack appropriate clothing, such as underwear and layers (maybe a hoodie or two), for warmth and comfort. Consider a waterproof jacket, poncho, and sturdy, closed, comfortable shoes with extra socks.
Some people, especially children, need comfort in times of uncertainty. Comfort items, like a small stuffed animal, photographs, or a favorite blanket, can go a long way in keeping them more calm in emergencies. The item should be portable (easy to transport and carry).
Sheltering during hurricanes and other natural disasters can be scary but also get boring. It is a good idea to have books, puzzles, or portable games to entertain your family while you wait. Don’t rely on internet-based electronics for entertainment as the power and internet may very well go out and batteries die.
Items for Pets, Babies, and Older Individuals
Pets should have water, plenty of dry (non-perishable) food, a leash, and a carrier or crate. Supplies should last at least three days, and you should bring plenty of waste bags for accidents while sheltering. For cats, store a litter box with fresh litter, a scoop, and a small waste container in your shelter space.
Babies need at least a week’s worth of formula or powdered milk, baby food, diapers, clean bottles, wipes, and warm clothing and blankets. Don’t forget any necessary medications or supplies in case your baby is ill or has other medical needs.
For older individuals you should include a weekly supply of medications and extra mobility aids as needed, such as a cane or a wheelchair. Other supplies, such as adult diapers, depend upon the individual’s health. The rule of thumb is to bring the items that would be normally needed on a daily basis. In your waterproof bag of documents, include a list of medical conditions, emergency contacts (including care providers), and medications.
Emergency Kit Storage, Maintenance, and Hurricane Drills
While non-perishable food is essential to include in your hurricane prep kits, it does eventually expire after a long period. Check your emergency kits regularly to ensure the items are not expired. Replace expired (or near-expiration) items, then store your backpack in a cool, dry place, preferably in a portable, plastic, sealable container or bin. Everyone in your household should know where the emergency supplies are kept.
At least twice per year, run through hurricane drills with all of your household. Take the drills seriously and urge your household to treat run-throughs like they would in an actual natural disaster.
Planning Ahead: Preparing for Disasters
For hurricane prep kits, the general rule of thumb is to have enough essential supplies per person to last for three days. Store your hurricane preparation kits in an easily accessible place where every member of your family knows where it is. Regularly run through emergency drills with your household, and update your kit with fresh water and non-perishable food to replace expired supplies when appropriate.
Bolster your confidence and peace of mind with preparedness for whatever comes your way. An emergency essentials kit will ensure you and your household is safe and secure in the face of potential danger.
Check out our Hurricane Preparation Guide for more details and information. And make sure you view our blog for dozens of helpful articles on preparing your home and your family for hurricane season.
