10 Things You Need to Survive a Hurricane: Your Ultimate Checklist
Hurricane season is upon us, and Mother Nature is anything but predictable. While the dark clouds and gusty winds might be intimidating, what truly makes the difference is how prepared we are.
And what better way to ensure safety than gathering the items on a top-notch hurricane survival kit checklist?
Dive in as we unravel the 10 things you absolutely need to survive a hurricane*.
1. Water
The importance of food and water can’t be stressed enough.
Aim for a gallon of water per person per day, with a minimum three-day supply. That’s the safe reserve just for drinking. Keep additional gallons for personal hygiene and cooking.
2. Nonperishable Food
When electricity goes off, those refrigerated delicacies won’t last. Stock up on nonperishable items, like:
- • Canned goods.
- • Dried fruits.
- • Vacuum-sealed meals.
Make sure you have a manual can opener and disposable utensils. You should have at least 2,000 calories of food per adult per day.
3. Flashlights & Batteries
A prolonged power outage? No problem if you have flashlights and extra batteries in your preparedness kit.
Consider having two sets of batteries for each flashlight in your home. For the tech-savvy, adding a NOAA weather radio with a hand crank will keep you updated and double as a charger for your cell phone.
The Power of Preparedness
Ensure your family is protected in the face of unexpected challenges with our Disaster Preparedness Guide.
Topics Include:
— Family Communication Plan
— Evacuation Plans
— Care for Pets
— Weather Monitoring
Download Our Disaster Preparedness Guide!
Start your journey to preparedness now and download the guide to learn practical steps for facing any disaster confidently.
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4. Multitool or Swiss Army Knife
A multitool can be a lifesaver for everything from cutting open packages to making minor repairs around the house.
Include duct tape and plastic sheeting. These can assist in quick fixes or even serve as a makeshift shelter.
5. First-Aid Kit
Injuries can add unexpected challenges during turbulent times. Equip your emergency kits with a comprehensive first-aid kit.
This should have:
- • Bandages.
- • Antiseptics.
- • Pain relievers.
- • Any specific medications that family members might need.
Many prescriptions can be ordered as a three-month supply, which will give you extra reserves in an emergency that interrupts the supply chain.
6. Cell Phone & Charger
Keeping in touch with emergency management services and loved ones is crucial. Ensure your cell phone has portable chargers, and get a hand crank charger if possible.
A battery-powered or NOAA weather radio can be indispensable for updates. Emergency response organizations may be active in your area.
As one example, Convoy of Hope partners with local churches and businesses to provide emergency supplies in communities following a natural disaster.
7. Personal Hygiene Items
Personal hygiene items, such as:
- • Wet wipes.
- • Hand sanitizers.
- • Menstrual health products.
- • Toothbrushes.
- • Toothpaste.
- • Any additional elements you regularly use.
These items can offer a touch of comfort and normalcy during the stress of a storm and power outage.
8. Important Documentation
Identity proofs, insurance papers, and bank details need to be protected. Keep them in a waterproof pouch. You never know when you’ll need them.
9. Clothing & Sleep Supplies
Blankets, sleeping bags, or warm clothing might seem trivial. But you’ll be glad you have them when the cold, damp atmosphere sets in post-hurricane.
10. Catch-All Items
Here are some more items to consider:
- • Local Maps – Knowing evacuation routes can be a lifesaver.
- • Fuel – If you have a safe space for it, keep a full emergency can of gas for your car.
- • Extra Cash – ATMs might not work, and not everyone accepts cards during emergencies.
Additional Customization
The best hurricane survival kit lists are ones that cater to your unique needs. Consider the specific needs of family members — be it infants, the elderly, or pets.
Refresh this kit as hurricane season approaches, and remember to check the expiration dates on food and water.
Next Steps: Be Hurricane Ready!
As they say, “Better safe than sorry!” Keeping a well-stocked supply kit is half the battle.
Ensuring you have at least a three-day supply of water for all family members is pivotal in times of crisis.
While the idea of curating the perfect kit might seem daunting, start with this list and customize as you go.
With unpredictable weather patterns on the rise, a ready-to-go hurricane survival kit can make all the difference between distress and comfort.
If you never need to use it, wonderful! But if a hurricane hits, you’ll be glad you have everything in place.
Stay safe, everyone!
*This article is not intended to provide expert advice regarding matters of preparedness. The information/material provided is intended for informational purposes only. No information/material in this article is intended to substitute for professional advice, personal responsibility, or personal research. Carefully evaluate your personal situation and seek expert advice when needed.
