It seems as though hurricanes are more prevalent than ever. Some contribute the recent onslaught of category 4 and 5 storms to global warming. Whatever the reason, getting caught off guard when a major storm does roll through is horrifying and can be deadly. It is particularly wise for folks residing in hurricane-prone areas to practice preparedness. But frankly, storms are unpredictable and it would not hurt anyone to put together a hurricane kit and be ready for the possibility of something bad.
Especially in the wake of some recent disastrous storms like Katrina and Rita, people are starting to realize that being prepared in the case of such a deadly storm is worth the effort. Folks who live in hurricane zones should make any necessary repairs to their homes well before hurricane season comes. This means checking for leaks all over the house: roofs, ceilings, windows, basements and cellars. Cracks need to be repaired as does anything that might make a home more vulnerable to the heavy rain and fierce winds that come with hurricanes. A specific plan of action should be planned out so that everyone knows what to do should the time come. Make certain that provisions are made for the elderly, the disabled or any small children.
Being prepared starts with putting together a good hurricane kit. Such a kit will contain all the basic stuff you and your family need, like water and food. Food items need to be nonperishable and periodically the expiration dates need to be checked. Replace food that is approaching the end of its shelf life with fresher items. The same holds true for water. The emergency kit should contain several gallons of drinking water, which should be replaced every 6 months with a new supply. Outdated, expired water and food will do no good when an emergency hits. Remember that it is likely you will be without power. So add to the kit things like candles and waterproof matches, flashlights and a small radio. If possible, go with a hand cranked radio and flashlight so you do not have to worry about batteries.
The possibility exists that your home might not last the duration of the storm. For that reason, make sure that all of your important documents are part of the kit. They can be stored in waterproof, sealed bags. Tools like a shovel, machete or axe might come in handy. An axe may be used to collect wood to use in cooking. Tools may also be the only way you can get out of the house in the event that fallen trees or other debris have trapped you or a family member inside.
Do not forget any medicine. That is one thing that people often forget but sometimes literally cannot live without. In addition to medicine, you also want to include anything related to children, the elderly or pets. Other stuff to have ready are blankets, clothes, personal hygiene items and sanitary products.
Especially in the wake of some recent disastrous storms like Katrina and Rita, people are starting to realize that being prepared in the case of such a deadly storm is worth the effort. Folks who live in hurricane zones should make any necessary repairs to their homes well before hurricane season comes. This means checking for leaks all over the house: roofs, ceilings, windows, basements and cellars. Cracks need to be repaired as does anything that might make a home more vulnerable to the heavy rain and fierce winds that come with hurricanes. A specific plan of action should be planned out so that everyone knows what to do should the time come. Make certain that provisions are made for the elderly, the disabled or any small children.
Being prepared starts with putting together a good hurricane kit. Such a kit will contain all the basic stuff you and your family need, like water and food. Food items need to be nonperishable and periodically the expiration dates need to be checked. Replace food that is approaching the end of its shelf life with fresher items. The same holds true for water. The emergency kit should contain several gallons of drinking water, which should be replaced every 6 months with a new supply. Outdated, expired water and food will do no good when an emergency hits. Remember that it is likely you will be without power. So add to the kit things like candles and waterproof matches, flashlights and a small radio. If possible, go with a hand cranked radio and flashlight so you do not have to worry about batteries.
The possibility exists that your home might not last the duration of the storm. For that reason, make sure that all of your important documents are part of the kit. They can be stored in waterproof, sealed bags. Tools like a shovel, machete or axe might come in handy. An axe may be used to collect wood to use in cooking. Tools may also be the only way you can get out of the house in the event that fallen trees or other debris have trapped you or a family member inside.
Do not forget any medicine. That is one thing that people often forget but sometimes literally cannot live without. In addition to medicine, you also want to include anything related to children, the elderly or pets. Other stuff to have ready are blankets, clothes, personal hygiene items and sanitary products.
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Living in a region that's prone to hurricanes? Buy a hurricane kit now! Get more info in our guide to everything you need to know about how and where to find quality emergency kits
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