Hurricane season is upon us, and the storms are starting to appear.  As Florida residents, it’s something we all need to be prepared for.  Of course, we all also hope that they won’t be needed.  In this case, better to be safe than sorry.  If you haven’t already prepared an emergency kit for this year’s storm season, here are some helpful tips.

THE PREP WORK:

Paper, paper everywhere. Should your home face the treat of flooding or damage, it’s important to know where to find your important documents quickly.  The deed to your home, your family’s medical records, birth certificates, social security cards, passports, and insurance documents may all be needed in case of an emergency.  Keeping all these documents together in a protective portable case will make transporting the items easy if your family is forced to evacuate.  If your home is damaged, a protective case will help to ensure the documents inside aren’t unusable.  Keeping a copy of these documents off-site in a safe place is also a great idea, and will help with your peace of mind.

Get personal. Every household is unique, and so are the needs of the people that inhabit it.  While government aid agencies offer great guidelines for creating a kit, it’s important to also include items that they may not have thought of.

Safety first. Not only is it important that your family members are safe, but consider the safety of your home as well.  Identify where the main electrical, gas, and water shutoff valves are in or around your home, and have the correct wrench needed on standby.  Should a storm strike, you’ll be ready to both prepare your home and evacuate quickly.

CREATING YOUR KIT:

The Basics. Here’s a quick review of what every basic disaster kit should include, whether evacuating or staying put.

Water: One gallon per day for each person is recommended for drinking and sanitary needs.  In hot climates, doubling that number is suggested.  Also, don’t forget the needs of your pets.

Food: Experts suggest that there be a 3-day supply of food, non-perishables.  Include the essentials like protein, fruit, and vegetables.  Throwing in some dry goods that don’t need to be cooked (granola bars, trail mix) is also recommended.  Pack things you like – the potential of not having access to grocery stores or restaurants is bad enough, so don’t torture yourself with inedible foods. The most important thing? Don’t forget the can opener!

Flashlights and extra batteries: In a world without electricity, things can be tough.  Make sure you’ve got flashlights available for all family members, along with an extra.  Keep batteries on hand for the flashlights and any other devices you’ll have a need to use.

First-aid supplies: Keep the basics on hand in order to be prepared for minor injuries.  Band-aids, bandages and dressings, cleansers, and antibiotics should all be part of your kit.  Also consider adding items like scissors and tweezers.  Pain relievers are a must, and analgesics like Tums and Pepto-Bismol are also a good idea.  Always make sure to be prepared with prescriptions medications that may be required as well.

Sanitation & hygiene items: Hand wipes and moist towelettes, toilet paper, paper towels, and garbage bags are all necessities.  Also, pack toiletries you’ll need such as soap, shampoos, toothbrushes & toothpaste, deodorant, and other must-haves.

Radio or TV: Keep a portable radio or television on hand that doesn’t require electricity.  Whether it’s crank operated or runs on batteries, it’s an essential to remain connected and receive critical information when the power goes out. Good emergency radios are available for purchase online from the Red Cross

Plastic sheeting, duct tape, and dust masks: It’s always a good idea to have these items on hand just in case your need to seal your home after damage, or protect your family members from airborne contaminants after a storm.

Extra items: A favorite toy or other comforting items for the kids should be considered as well.  Cash should be available in your kit – credit and debit cards won’t do much good in a storm damaged area without electricity.  Also, remember that along with Florida summers come the mosquitos – don’t forget your repellent!