Hurricane Preparedness Checklist
Residents should have enough supplies on hand to survive for at least three days after a hurricane hits. Here's a checklist of the basic items for a disaster supplies kit that will help you survive the first 72 hours.
Food and drink
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Drinking water: 1 gallon per person per day
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Enough nonperishable food for at least the first few days (The ideal: two weeks worth)
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Comfort food (cookies, pastries) to relieve stress
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Toilet paper, paper towels, plastic tableware and cups, wet wipes, plastic wrap, plastic trash bags
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Two coolers: one for food, one for ice
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Manual can opener
Health and safety
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A flashlight and batteries for each family member
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First-aid kit: bandages, antiseptic, tape, compresses, pain relievers, anti-diarrhea medication, antacid
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Medication for routine illnesses such as colds
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Liquid soap, hand sanitizer, wet wipes, tooth brushing pads
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Water purification kit
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Two-week supply of medications
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Fire extinguisher
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Infant necessities: medicine, diapers, formula, bottles, wipes
Miscellaneous
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Cleanup supplies: mop, buckets, towels, disinfectant, bleach, for demolding
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Camera or camcorder to properly record property before the storm and document damage
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Extra batteries
If you evacuate
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Pillows, blankets, sleeping bags or air mattresses. Shelters provide no sleeping facilities
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Folding chairs or cots
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Extra clothing and shoes
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Personal hygiene items: tooth-brush, washcloth, deodorant, etc.
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Food, water, ice
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Prescription medications in their original containers
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Books, handheld games, cards, toys, needlework
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Cash- ATMs, credit-card networks might be down
Extras you might not think of
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Fill your car's gas tank
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Extra eyeglasses; sunglasses
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Insect repellent
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Sunscreen
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Appropriate clothes for after the storm passes: closed-toe shoes, dry socks, rain gear, hat
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Flat fixer for tires
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Work gloves