Hurricane preparedness shouldn’t be taken lightly. With hurricane season in full swing, it’s important to know what to do in the event of a natural disaster.
We can all agree that weather can be unpredictable. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), you should prepare for the inevitable by putting together a hurricane survival kit with everything needed for at least 72 hours after the storm.
After losing heat and electricity following Superstorm Sandy, I highly recommend having supplies that can last about a week. That’s how long it took for power to be restored in our home. When you have a toddler to care for and a full time job, managing household duties can be difficult. Fortunately, we were able to spend the time with family until things got back to normal.
When Should You Start Preparing?
Well, it’s never too early to prepare for a big storm. Once hurricane watches or warnings are issued for your town, start securing items around your home. Not only do hurricanes bring rain, these storms are also associated with damaging winds that can cause items to damage your home or cause injuries. With the approaching rainy season, it’s advisable to call a Roofing Contractor Brisbane to help you check if your roof is ready for heavy storms. Hiring roof repair services will ensure any necessary repairs or reinforcements, providing your home with optimal protection. You may find roofing services here. You may need to purchase 316 Stainless Wing Nuts and other construction supplies when working on home repairs.
If you’re planning to replace your gutters before the hurricanes, you should find out more about this seamless gutter company here to ensure your home is well-prepared for the storm season. You can also contact Bakersfield Concrete Co, concrete contractors in Bakersfield CA ahead of time to ask for their quote.
If you haven’t downloaded a weather app already, now is the time to do so. Weather apps come in handy when it comes to sever weather. You can actually find out weather conditions in your neighborhood hour by hour as well as get notifications on your phone.
Make of List of Must Have Items for Your Hurricane Preparedness Emergency Kit
Having an emergency kit in your home and vehicle is key to getting through a hurricane. Also, have first aid supplies along with nonperishable food, and a flashlight with batteries handy. Here’s a complete list of must have items for your hurricane survival kit.
1. One gallon of water per person per day for at least three days.
2. A minimum three day supply of non-perishable food.
3. Battery-powered or hand crank radio and a NOAA weather radio with tone alert and extra batteries for both.
Flashlight and extra batteries
First aid kit
4. Whistle (used to signal for help)
5. Dust mask (to help filter contaminated air), plastic sheeting, and duct tape (to build a shelter if necessary)
6. Moist towelettes, garbage bags, and plastic ties (for personal sanitation). Visit grissmandumpsters.com to rent a dumpster ahead of time.
7. Wrench or pliers (to turn off utilities)
8. Manual can opener
9. Local maps
10. Cell phone with chargers, inverter, or solar charger
When it comes to storing food, make sure it doesn’t require electricity. Avoid foods with starch and a lot of salt because it can make you thirsty. Stick to salt-free crackers and cereals. Your hurricane preparedness kit should have enough food and water for each person for at least 72 hours after the storms.
Why? Because that’s how long we can live without water. It’s also the minimum amount of days we should prepare to be without electricity and clean, running water. It’s also a good idea to have extra clothing and blankets in case it gets chilly.
That’s exactly what happened during the aftermath of Superstorm Sandy. With no electricity, the temperature in our home dipped into the 40s. Unless you have generators, make sure you’re stocked up.
If a hurricane is on the way, don’t forget to purchase enough gas to last you a few days. Fortunately, we were able to fill up prior to the storm. However, many people weren’t so lucky. Gas lines stretched for blocks with folks looking to fill up their tank.
It’s common for power to go out during stormy weather, especially when hurricanes occur. To avoid being left in the dark and cold during this time, you can rent a generator at https://expertgeneratorhire.co.uk/
After the hurricane passes, check your house for damages and call your insurance such as bear river insurance to file damage claims. So the next time we brace for a hurricane or any other severe weather event, be prepared.
Do you have a hurricane preparedness kit? What’s in it?
