In the aftermath of a hurricane, power outages, road closures, and disrupted supply chains can hinder access to essential services and resources. A well-prepared emergency kit allows you and your family to remain safe and self-sufficient for several days, even if help is delayed. Customizing your kit based on your household’s specific needs—including medical conditions, dietary restrictions, and the presence of infants, elderly family members, or pets—is crucial. Regularly reviewing and updating your kit ensures that supplies are current and ready for use.
👉 For a complete checklist and expert advice, read our Ultimate Guide to Hurricane Preparedness.
Essential Supplies to Include
- Water
- Quantity: Store at least one gallon of water per person per day for at least seven days, both for drinking and sanitation needs.
- Food
- Type: Include non-perishable, easy-to-prepare items such as canned goods, energy bars, and dried fruits.
- Quantity: Aim for a seven-day supply per person.
- Tools: Pack a manual can opener to access canned foods.
- Medications
- Supply: Have at least a seven-day supply of essential medications, including any necessary prescriptions.
- Storage: Keep medications in their original containers, clearly labeled.
- First-Aid Supplies
- Contents: Assemble a comprehensive first-aid kit containing items like adhesive bandages, sterile gauze pads, antiseptic wipes, non-latex gloves, and pain relievers.
- Lighting and Communication
- Flashlight: Include a battery-powered or hand-crank flashlight with extra batteries.
- Radio: Pack a battery-powered or hand-crank NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert and extra batteries.
- Personal Hygiene Items
- Sanitation: Include items such as moist towelettes, disinfectant wipes, toilet paper, and feminine hygiene product items.
- Documentation
- Storage: Keep copies of important documents, identification, and insurance papers in a waterproof container.
- Special Needs Items
- Infants: Include baby formula, diapers, bottles, and pacifiers.
- Elderly: Pack items like hearing aids, glasses, and mobility aids.
- Pets: Prepare a separate kit for pets, including food, water, medications, leashes, and carriers.
- Tools and Supplies
- Multipurpose Tool: Include a multipurpose tool with functions like cutting, opening, and tightening.
- Whistle: Pack a whistle to signal for help if needed.
- Plastic Sheeting and Duct Tape: These can be used to shelter in place if necessary.
- Comfort Items
- Entertainment: Include books, games, or cards to help pass the time.
Cash: Have small denominations of cash on hand, as ATMs and credit card machines may not be operational.
Additional Recommendations
- Storage: Store items in airtight plastic bags and place your entire disaster supplies kit in one or two easy-to-carry containers, such as plastic bins or a duffel bag.
- Accessibility: Keep your emergency kit in an easily accessible location known to all family members.
- Regular Updates: Review and update your kit annually or whenever significant changes occur in your family or living situation.
Don’t wait until a storm is approaching—assemble your hurricane emergency kit now. Being prepared ensures you have everything needed to weather the storm and recover safely.
🚨 Want to help disaster survivors rebuild? Donate or Train as a Hope Force Reservist today!
Together, we can provide hope in the storm.
