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

  • Drinking water: 1 gallon per person per day
  • Enough nonperishable food for at least the first few days (The ideal: two weeks worth)
  • Comfort food (cookies, pastries) to relieve stress
  • Toilet paper, paper towels, plastic tableware and cups, wet wipes, plastic wrap, plastic trash bags
  • Two coolers: one for food, one for ice
  • Manual can opener
 

Health and safety

  • A flashlight and batteries for each family member
  • First-aid kit: bandages, antiseptic, tape, compresses, pain relievers, anti-diarrhea medication, antacid
  • Medication for routine illnesses such as colds
  • Liquid soap, hand sanitizer, wet wipes, tooth brushing pads
  • Water purification kit
  • Two-week supply of medications
  • Fire extinguisher
  • Infant necessities: medicine, diapers, formula, bottles, wipes
 

Miscellaneous

  • Cleanup supplies: mop, buckets, towels, disinfectant, bleach, for demolding
  • Camera or camcorder to properly record property before the storm and document damage
  • Extra batteries
 

If you evacuate

  • Pillows, blankets, sleeping bags or air mattresses. Shelters provide no sleeping facilities
  • Folding chairs or cots
  • Extra clothing and shoes
  • Personal hygiene items: tooth-brush, washcloth, deodorant, etc.
  • Food, water, ice
  • Prescription medications in their original containers
  • Books, handheld games, cards, toys, needlework
  • Cash- ATMs, credit-card networks might be down
 

Extras you might not think of

  • Fill your car's gas tank
  • Extra eyeglasses; sunglasses
  • Insect repellent
  • Sunscreen
  • Appropriate clothes for after the storm passes: closed-toe shoes, dry socks, rain gear, hat
  • Flat fixer for tires
  • Work gloves