Hurricane Preparedness Supplies: 6 Essential Items Every Home Needs
From June to November, hurricane season threatens to bring strong winds, storm surge, and torrential rainfall to many parts of the Atlantic. These powerful storms can especially impact coastal areas.
Fortunately, you don’t have to wait until hurricane season begins to prepare for these large storms. That’s because you can start gathering hurricane preparedness supplies all year long.
Read on for the essential items every home needs to prepare for hurricanes. That way, you can plan for nasty weather months before the first raindrop.
#1 Food and Water
Food and water should be at the top of your essential safety items list. That’s because food and water can often be hard to come by before, during, and after dangerous hurricanes. In some cases, grocery stores may be empty several days before a hurricane’s arrival. Water lines may not be restored until months after the storm passes.
Let’s take a closer look at your nutrition needs by discussing the following basic items:
● Food
● Water
● Baby food
● Pet food
● Food accessories
Food
Regardless of whether you’re planning to evacuate or shelter in place, you’ll need an adequate supply of food. According to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), your hurricane preparedness emergency supply kit should contain:
● A three-day supply of food per person if you’re evacuating
● A two-week supply of food per person if you’re sheltering-in-place
This food should be non-perishable, like canned food and easy to prepare. Recommended foods include:
● Canned meat and other goods
● Meals ready-to-eat (MREs)
● Dried fruits and nuts
● Energy bars
Water
The most powerful hurricanes can disrupt a community’s water supply for months. Not only can hurricanes disrupt water lines, but they can also pollute reservoirs. As a result, stockpiling enough water to last you through the storm is incredibly important.
According to FEMA, your hurricane preparedness kit should contain a gallon of water per person per day. If you’re evacuating, you should have enough water to last you three days. If you’re sheltering in place, you’ll need a two-week supply.
Baby Food
If you have babies or toddlers, you’ll also need to stock baby food and other food appropriate for young children. This food includes:
● Formula
● Baby food
● Powdered milk
● Juice boxes
● Crackers
Like regular food, you’ll need at least a three-day supply of baby food if you’re evacuating and a two-week supply if you’re staying put.
Pet Food
Finally, you’ll need to stock food for any furry friends. To this extent, make sure you have enough:
● Dry food
● Wet food
● Water
You may also need to include comfort items in your preparedness kit, such as:
● Blankets
● Toys
● Catnip
● Litterboxes
Food Accessories
Non-perishable food has many advantages. In addition to lasting for years, non-perishable food typically doesn’t require cooking. That said, you’ll still want the following—especially if you’re stocking canned goods:
● Can openers
● Plates and utensils
● Storage containers
#2 Tools and Equipment
Tools and equipment, like a portable generator, should make up a core section of your hurricane preparedness checklist. While you may not be able to use some of these tools immediately during the storm, many of these tools can make your life easier once the storm passes during the cleanup process.
Consider adding the following essential tools and equipment to your preparedness kit:
● A portable generator
● A chainsaw
● Fire extinguisher
● A basic toolkit
● Tarps and ropes
Let’s explore each vital piece of equipment further.
Portable Generator
Portable generators are indispensable when it comes to preparing for hurricanes. These handy machines can deliver power to your home during power outages. Without a portable generator, you may be in the dark for days or even weeks.
When choosing what size portable generator you need, note two important factors:
● Watts – A watt is a measurement of power. The higher a generator’s wattage, the more electricity it can generate. This means more power is delivered to your home.
● Fuel source – Some generators run on gasoline. Other generators run on propane or natural gas. Dual fuel generators can run on two of these fuels, and Tri-Fuel generators can run on all 3. This dual/tri fuel capability can protect you even further should a hurricane disrupt your local gas lines.
Some of the best Tri Fuel Generators can provide up to 15,000 watts. Not only can these generators power your entire home, but they can also run on gasoline, propane, or natural gas to meet your specific needs.
Chainsaw
You likely won’t use a chainsaw during a hurricane, but you may need to use one before and after the storm. Here’s why:
● Before the storm – A chainsaw can help you prepare for a hurricane by cutting down dangerous branches. As a result, these branches won’t threaten your home due to a hurricane’s high winds.
● After the storm – Hurricanes are notorious for downing branches and even trees. A chainsaw can help you remove these objects from your property following a storm.
Basic Toolkit
From helping you install plywood over your windows to repairing your weather radio, a basic toolkit can make a big difference during inclement weather.
Basic tool kits typically include:
● Hammers
● Nails
● Screws
● Screwdrivers
● Wrenches
● Duct tape
This assortment of tools allows you to repair items and objects before, during, and after a hurricane. Here’s how:
● Before the storm – Depending on the hurricane’s size, you may need to prepare your property to withstand the storm. This storm preparation often includes boarding up windows and fixing broken roof shingles. Hammers and nails can help you fortify your home.
● During the storm – You may need to replace batteries in flashlights and radios. You may even need to construct a makeshift table to shelter in place comfortably. Basic tools such as hammers, and screwdrivers can help you accomplish these tasks.
● After the storm – A basic toolkit may be more useful after the storm than before or during. That’s because you’ll likely need to repair many objects around your property—from fence posts to swing sets.
Tarps and Ropes
Tarps can be invaluable when preparing your home for a hurricane. These hardy coverings can help prevent water and debris from entering your home. They can also protect patio furniture, swimming pools, and boats from high winds.
In addition to tarps, you’ll need ropes to tie down your property. Strong ropes can help anchor a boat to a dock. They can also tie back hazardous shrubs and tree limbs.
#3 Lights and Communication Devices
Even if you have a portable generator to help you and your family stay safe during the storm, you’ll still likely need extra light sources. After all, you can never have enough light to guide you through dark times.
For instance, you’ll need a flashlight when your power cuts out during an extreme Public Safety Power Shutoff or PSPS event. As such, consider adding flashlights and lanterns to your hurricane preparedness kit. You’ll also need extra batteries to power these light sources.
Furthermore, you’ll likely need another source of light: communication.
Communication devices allow you to receive important hurricane updates. You can also use them to contact family members, friends, and rescue workers. To enhance your communication capabilities, add the following to your hurricane kit:
● A weather radio
● A satellite phone
● Extra cell phones
● Emergency weather applications
The good news is that your portable generator should keep all of these devices charged and ready to go.
#4 Clothing and Hygiene Items
If you’re sheltering in place, you may be able to access your full wardrobe. However, if you need to evacuate, you’ll likely want enough clothes to last several days. You’ll also want to pack extra hygiene items, including:
● Toothbrushes
● Toothpaste
● Floss
● Toilet paper
● Feminine supplies
Finally, you’ll want to pack sleeping bags for you and your family. Sleeping bags can come in handy if you need to evacuate to an emergency storm shelter.
#5 Medicine and First Aid Supplies
Hurricanes often close down pharmacies, making it difficult to procure your prescriptions. That said, obtaining your prescriptions before a hurricane makes landfall is essential.
You’ll also want to pack extra vitamins and supplements into your hurricane preparedness kit.
Last but not least, you’ll want to ensure you have enough first aid supplies to deal with minor infections and wounds. While some emergency treatment facilities may be open during a hurricane, others may not. The last thing you want is a minor cut to become infected while you’re sheltering in place.
An exceptional first aid kit usually includes:
● Bandages
● Gauze
● Antiseptic
● Tweezers
● Scissors
● Pain relievers
#6 Additional Supplies
Preparing for a hurricane means stockpiling a wide variety of emergency supplies. Here are a few other resources you’ll want to include in your hurricane preparedness kit:
● Extra batteries
● Evacuation maps
● Extra cash
● Personal valuables
● Jewelry
● House deeds
● Insurance policy and other important documents
● Hand sanitizer
You might also consider including entertainment items like books, games, and cards. That way, you and your family can pass the time while waiting for the storm to pass.
Prepare for the Next Hurricane with DuroMax
Preparing for a hurricane means gathering essential supplies to protect your family and home. These supplies include food and water, clothing, and medicine. However, no hurricane preparedness emergency plan is complete without DuroMax.
Fortunately, you don’t have to wait until hurricane season begins to prepare for these large storms. That’s because you can start gathering hurricane preparedness supplies all year long.
Read on for the essential items every home needs to prepare for hurricanes. That way, you can plan for nasty weather months before the first raindrop.
#1 Food and Water
Food and water should be at the top of your essential safety items list. That’s because food and water can often be hard to come by before, during, and after dangerous hurricanes. In some cases, grocery stores may be empty several days before a hurricane’s arrival. Water lines may not be restored until months after the storm passes.
Let’s take a closer look at your nutrition needs by discussing the following basic items:
● Food
● Water
● Baby food
● Pet food
● Food accessories
Food
Regardless of whether you’re planning to evacuate or shelter in place, you’ll need an adequate supply of food. According to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), your hurricane preparedness emergency supply kit should contain:
● A three-day supply of food per person if you’re evacuating
● A two-week supply of food per person if you’re sheltering-in-place
This food should be non-perishable, like canned food and easy to prepare. Recommended foods include:
● Canned meat and other goods
● Meals ready-to-eat (MREs)
● Dried fruits and nuts
● Energy bars
Water
The most powerful hurricanes can disrupt a community’s water supply for months. Not only can hurricanes disrupt water lines, but they can also pollute reservoirs. As a result, stockpiling enough water to last you through the storm is incredibly important.
According to FEMA, your hurricane preparedness kit should contain a gallon of water per person per day. If you’re evacuating, you should have enough water to last you three days. If you’re sheltering in place, you’ll need a two-week supply.
Baby Food
If you have babies or toddlers, you’ll also need to stock baby food and other food appropriate for young children. This food includes:
● Formula
● Baby food
● Powdered milk
● Juice boxes
● Crackers
Like regular food, you’ll need at least a three-day supply of baby food if you’re evacuating and a two-week supply if you’re staying put.
Pet Food
Finally, you’ll need to stock food for any furry friends. To this extent, make sure you have enough:
● Dry food
● Wet food
● Water
You may also need to include comfort items in your preparedness kit, such as:
● Blankets
● Toys
● Catnip
● Litterboxes
Food Accessories
Non-perishable food has many advantages. In addition to lasting for years, non-perishable food typically doesn’t require cooking. That said, you’ll still want the following—especially if you’re stocking canned goods:
● Can openers
● Plates and utensils
● Storage containers
#2 Tools and Equipment
Tools and equipment, like a portable generator, should make up a core section of your hurricane preparedness checklist. While you may not be able to use some of these tools immediately during the storm, many of these tools can make your life easier once the storm passes during the cleanup process.
Consider adding the following essential tools and equipment to your preparedness kit:
● A portable generator
● A chainsaw
● Fire extinguisher
● A basic toolkit
● Tarps and ropes
Let’s explore each vital piece of equipment further.
Portable Generator
Portable generators are indispensable when it comes to preparing for hurricanes. These handy machines can deliver power to your home during power outages. Without a portable generator, you may be in the dark for days or even weeks.
When choosing what size portable generator you need, note two important factors:
● Watts – A watt is a measurement of power. The higher a generator’s wattage, the more electricity it can generate. This means more power is delivered to your home.
● Fuel source – Some generators run on gasoline. Other generators run on propane or natural gas. Dual fuel generators can run on two of these fuels, and Tri-Fuel generators can run on all 3. This dual/tri fuel capability can protect you even further should a hurricane disrupt your local gas lines.
Some of the best Tri Fuel Generators can provide up to 15,000 watts. Not only can these generators power your entire home, but they can also run on gasoline, propane, or natural gas to meet your specific needs.
Chainsaw
You likely won’t use a chainsaw during a hurricane, but you may need to use one before and after the storm. Here’s why:
● Before the storm – A chainsaw can help you prepare for a hurricane by cutting down dangerous branches. As a result, these branches won’t threaten your home due to a hurricane’s high winds.
● After the storm – Hurricanes are notorious for downing branches and even trees. A chainsaw can help you remove these objects from your property following a storm.
Basic Toolkit
From helping you install plywood over your windows to repairing your weather radio, a basic toolkit can make a big difference during inclement weather.
Basic tool kits typically include:
● Hammers
● Nails
● Screws
● Screwdrivers
● Wrenches
● Duct tape
This assortment of tools allows you to repair items and objects before, during, and after a hurricane. Here’s how:
● Before the storm – Depending on the hurricane’s size, you may need to prepare your property to withstand the storm. This storm preparation often includes boarding up windows and fixing broken roof shingles. Hammers and nails can help you fortify your home.
● During the storm – You may need to replace batteries in flashlights and radios. You may even need to construct a makeshift table to shelter in place comfortably. Basic tools such as hammers, and screwdrivers can help you accomplish these tasks.
● After the storm – A basic toolkit may be more useful after the storm than before or during. That’s because you’ll likely need to repair many objects around your property—from fence posts to swing sets.
Tarps and Ropes
Tarps can be invaluable when preparing your home for a hurricane. These hardy coverings can help prevent water and debris from entering your home. They can also protect patio furniture, swimming pools, and boats from high winds.
In addition to tarps, you’ll need ropes to tie down your property. Strong ropes can help anchor a boat to a dock. They can also tie back hazardous shrubs and tree limbs.
#3 Lights and Communication Devices
Even if you have a portable generator to help you and your family stay safe during the storm, you’ll still likely need extra light sources. After all, you can never have enough light to guide you through dark times.
For instance, you’ll need a flashlight when your power cuts out during an extreme Public Safety Power Shutoff or PSPS event. As such, consider adding flashlights and lanterns to your hurricane preparedness kit. You’ll also need extra batteries to power these light sources.
Furthermore, you’ll likely need another source of light: communication.
Communication devices allow you to receive important hurricane updates. You can also use them to contact family members, friends, and rescue workers. To enhance your communication capabilities, add the following to your hurricane kit:
● A weather radio
● A satellite phone
● Extra cell phones
● Emergency weather applications
The good news is that your portable generator should keep all of these devices charged and ready to go.
#4 Clothing and Hygiene Items
If you’re sheltering in place, you may be able to access your full wardrobe. However, if you need to evacuate, you’ll likely want enough clothes to last several days. You’ll also want to pack extra hygiene items, including:
● Toothbrushes
● Toothpaste
● Floss
● Toilet paper
● Feminine supplies
Finally, you’ll want to pack sleeping bags for you and your family. Sleeping bags can come in handy if you need to evacuate to an emergency storm shelter.
#5 Medicine and First Aid Supplies
Hurricanes often close down pharmacies, making it difficult to procure your prescriptions. That said, obtaining your prescriptions before a hurricane makes landfall is essential.
You’ll also want to pack extra vitamins and supplements into your hurricane preparedness kit.
Last but not least, you’ll want to ensure you have enough first aid supplies to deal with minor infections and wounds. While some emergency treatment facilities may be open during a hurricane, others may not. The last thing you want is a minor cut to become infected while you’re sheltering in place.
An exceptional first aid kit usually includes:
● Bandages
● Gauze
● Antiseptic
● Tweezers
● Scissors
● Pain relievers
#6 Additional Supplies
Preparing for a hurricane means stockpiling a wide variety of emergency supplies. Here are a few other resources you’ll want to include in your hurricane preparedness kit:
● Extra batteries
● Evacuation maps
● Extra cash
● Personal valuables
● Jewelry
● House deeds
● Insurance policy and other important documents
● Hand sanitizer
You might also consider including entertainment items like books, games, and cards. That way, you and your family can pass the time while waiting for the storm to pass.
Prepare for the Next Hurricane with DuroMax
Preparing for a hurricane means gathering essential supplies to protect your family and home. These supplies include food and water, clothing, and medicine. However, no hurricane preparedness emergency plan is complete without DuroMax.
