Hurricanes, tornadoes, and other high wind storms are among the most destructive natural disasters that affect the United States on a regular basis. In recent years, some of these storms have caused record losses. The National Weather Service and the National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) recommend families to have a disaster plan, including hurricane evacuation routes, in place. This plan should include a Disaster Supply Kit, as well as training in first aid and CPR.

Items to gather into your supply kit should include the following:

• WATER – one gallon of water per person per day for at least three days.
• FOOD – at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food. (You will also want to include a non-electric can opener, paper plates, cups, plastic utensils, and paper towels.)
• FIRST AID KIT – including antiseptics, bandages, over the counter medications, and backup prescription glasses. (You may even want to add in a first aid booklet.)
• FLASHLIGHT(S) AND EXTRA BATTERIES – (Oil lanterns also provide a good source of light, if available)
• RADIO – (battery operated or hand-cranked) to listen to weather service announcements; and extra batteries.
• TOILETRIES – including toilet paper, moist towelettes, personal hygiene items, feminine supplies, hand sanitizer, diapers, and garbage bags with plastic ties.
• BEDDING – sleeping bags and pillows, possibly blankets (if in colder weather).
• CLOTHING – a complete change of clothing, including a pair of sturdy, close toe, non-slip shoes. Although it may be warm, if you will be working and cleaning, you may need pants and long sleeves for protection. A jacket may also be needed for cooler weather.
• TOOLS – Wrench or pliers to turn off the utilities. Tarps, plastic sheets, duct tape, etc. to help make minor repairs. Matches in a waterproof container. Whistle to signal for help. Cellphone chargers, fire extinguisher, paper, and pencil.
• PET CARE ITEMS – including food, extra water, leash, and a carrier or cage.
• CASH – or Traveler’s Cheques and change as the banks may not be open.
• DOCUMENTS – Important documents including insurance policies, identification, medical records, bank account information, and emergency contact phone numbers should be kept in a portable waterproof container. You may also want to include a local map.
• GASOLINE – fill your car’s tank ahead, if time permits. You may also want to fill plastic gasoline-approved containers with gas to store.
• BLEACH – regular household chlorine bleach (not scented, color-safe, or with added cleaners) and a medicine dropper. Nine parts water to one part bleach can be used as a disinfectant. In an emergency, 16 drops of bleach can be used to “treat” one gallon of water.
• ENTERTAINMENT – Books, games, puzzles, or other activities for children and even yourself in time of “relaxation”.
• PRESCRIPTION MEDICATIONS – Even though things will be hectic at the time of a disaster, if you have planned ahead and your kit is ready, the only thing to remember will be your current prescription medications.

Now that you have your Disaster Supply Kit ready, where will you keep it? Since you do not know exactly where you might be when the emergency occurs, you may want to prepare supplies for several locations. The size and items in your kits may vary depending on where you keep them. For example, the previous list of items will be ideal for home.

You need to prepare a kit at work to shelter for at least 24 hours. Make sure you work kit also includes a pair of comfortable walking shoes in case you may have to walk a long distance for evacuation. Your work kit should also be small enough to be “grab and go” if you are evacuated.

You should keep a kit of emergency supplies in your car in case you are stranded somewhere. This kit should include items such as:

• Jumper cables
• First aid kit and necessary medications (if you are away for a prolonged period)
• Food items with high protein (nuts, energy bars) and canned fruit (include a portable can opener)
• Flashlight with extra batteries
• Water for each person & pet in your car
• Sand or cat litter for better tire traction
• Small shovel
• Blankets or sleeping bags
• AM radio for traffic reports & emergency messages
• Extra change of clothes, jacket, sturdy boots, hat, and gloves
• Flares or reflective triangle
• Emergency phone charger
• Ice scraper (if you live in cold weather
• Baby formula and diapers, if you have a small child

As important as it is to get your Disaster Supply Kit together, it is just as important to maintain it so that it is safe to use when it is needed. Here are a few tips to keep your supplies ready and safe to use:

• Write the date on all food, water, medicines, and any perishables you store in the kit.
• Keep canned food in a cool dry place.
• Store boxed food in tightly closed metal or plastic containers to protect them from pests and to help extend their shelf lives.
• Use foods you have stored before they go bad and replace with fresh ones.
• Throw out any canned goods that may become dented, corroded, or swollen.
• Place new items at the back of the storage area and move the older ones toward the front.
• Change stored water and food supplies every six months.
• Re-evaluate your kit and your needs every year. Update your kit as your family’s needs change.