This week Missy is sharing some tips on how to stockpile for not just hurricane’s but any storm that may come your way.

Hurricane Season is upon us. We all know we need to be prepared. Here in central Florida, we had 3 hurricanes in one season. While that may not be typical, it is always best to be ready in the event of an emergency.

According to The National Hurricane Center, Disaster Prevention should include:

  • Developing a Family Plan
  • Creating a Disaster Supply Kit
  • Having a Place to Go
  • Securing your Home
  • Having a Pet Plan

We are going to help with creating your disaster supply kit!

Be prepared! Don’t wait for the emergency to strike before you get ready. It’s much better to purchase supplies at “on sale” prices before the storm. When the storm is approaching, stores sell out of the things we need most (and we have to pay full price)!

Make sure to keep your emergency supplies separate from your regular stockpile. You don’t want them to get used up in everyday life. Do make sure that you rotate the stock though!

Some of the things to include are regular items that we all need and use, but not necessarily stockpile items:

  • Blankets / Pillows, etc.
  • Clothing – seasonal / rain gear/ sturdy shoes
  • Telephones – Fully charged cell phone with extra battery and a traditional (not cordless) telephone set
  • Cash (with some small bills) and Credit Cards – Banks and ATMs may not be available for extended periods
  • Keys
  • Toys, Books and Games
  • Place Important documents such as insurance, medical records, bank account numbers, Social Security card, etc. in a waterproof container or watertight resealable plastic bag
  • Basic tools – keep a set with you during the storm
  • Flashlight (do make sure to stockpile extra batteries)
  • Radio – Battery operated and NOAA weather radio
  • Supplies for cooking/eating:
    • Non-electric can opener
    • Cooking tools / fuel
    • Paper plates / plastic utensils

Stockpile items to include:

  • Water – at least 1 gallon daily per person for 3 to 7 days
  • Food (nonperishable) – at least enough for 3 to 7 days
    • Canned meat
    • Canned fruit
    • Canned soups, stews, etc.
    • Juice boxes (or pouches)
    • Dried fruit
    • Nuts
    • Cookies & crackers
    • Peanut butter
    • Jelly
    • Cereal (the kind that can be eaten dry)
    • Granola bars
    • Individual packs of condiments (save these from dining out)
    • Instant coffee, tea, drink mix
    • Sport drinks
  • First Aid Kit / Medicines
    • Sterile, adhesive bandages
    • Assorted safety pins
    • Cleansing agent/soap
    • Latex gloves
    • Sunscreen
    • Sterile gauze pads
    • Sterile roll bandages
    • Scissors
    • Adhesive tape
    • Tweezers
    • Needle
    • Moistened towelettes
    • Antiseptic
    • Rubbing alcohol
    • Alcohol wipes
    • Thermometer
    • Petroleum jelly
    • Insect repellant
    • Acetaminophen
    • Ibuprofen
    • Hand sanitizer
    • Elastic bandages
    • Insect bite swabs
    • Triple-antibiotic ointment
    • Hydrogen peroxide
    • Instant cold packs
    • Prescription medications
    • Extra eye glasses
  • Toiletries-Hygiene items
    • Wet wipes or baby wipes
    • Toothbrushes for everyone
    • Toothpaste
    • Deodorant
  • Special Items for Babies
    • Formula
    • Baby food
    • Diapers
    • Wipes
    • Pacifier
    • Blanket
    • Extra clothes
    • Liquid acetaminophen
    • Liquid ibuprofen
  • Pet care items
    • Proper identification / immunization records / medications
    • Ample supply of food, water, and treats (3-7 days)
    • Muzzle and leash

One other note, if you have a diabetic or senior citizen in your home, please be certain to include the extra things they require!

In the event that a hurricane IS heading your way, please don’t forget to fill your vehicle up with gas!

Additional information: