Proper Emergency Kit Essential to Hurricane Preparedness

When it comes to hurricane preparedness, you can’t be too careful.

As we’ve seen recently with Hurricanes Harvey and Irma, even a tiny mistake can have significant consequences. To ensure you and your loved ones are as prepared as possible, ensure you have a proper emergency kit ready.

This may include flashlights, batteries, first aid kits, and more. Make sure you plan where to go if the worst happens, and stock up on supplies before the storm hits.

By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to preparing for any disaster.

What to include in an emergency kit

When thinking about what to put in your emergency kit, keep these things in mind:

• A first-aid kit
• Canned food and water
• Extra clothes and blankets
• Flashlight/headlamp
• Multi-purpose tool
• Map of the area you’re in
• Cash
• Local phone book or map

What not to include in an emergency kit

Several items should not be included in an emergency kit, as they are not necessary for survival during a hurricane.

For example, bottled water is not necessary for residents of the Gulf Coast who have access to clean water sources. Similarly, canned food will only last for a few days in an emergency and may not be edible.

It is also important to avoid carrying unnecessary valuables, as these will be destroyed or lost in the storm.

Instead, include items like flashlights, batteries, and first-aid supplies. Finally, do not forget to plan your evacuation route!

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Tips for packing an emergency kit

Regarding hurricane preparedness, everyone should have a few essentials in their emergency kit.

Here are tips for packing an emergency kit:

• Know the types of weather you’re likely to encounter. A hurricane is a type of storm that can include strong winds, rain, and heavy seas. If you know you will be traveling in or near a hurricane area, ensure your kit includes supplies specific to hurricanes.
• Be sure to have enough food and water for at least three days. You may not be able to get to a store during a hurricane, so it’s essential to have enough supplies on hand to last until conditions improve.
• Have items such as flashlights, batteries, and first aid kits available. Ensure your kit includes tools necessary for breaking into windows in an emergency.
• If you stay put during a storm, ensure your kit has extra blankets and clothes and non-perishable food and water supplies like canned goods and bottled water.
• If you are evacuating, pack essential documents like your driver’s license, passport, money, and photos of family members.

How to store your emergency kit

When planning an emergency, including a kit with water, food, flashlights, first aid supplies, and tools.

The kit should be stored where it is easy to access in an emergency.

Some tips on how to store your emergency kit:

• Ensure all supplies are tightly wrapped so they are not rattled and are easily identifiable.
• Place the kit near a window or door that opens onto an outside area.
• Consider putting the kit in a small room, such as a closet or bathroom, so that the room will not be inaccessible if there is flooding.
• Consider including an evacuation plan with your kit.
• Keep the kit updated and stocked with new items as needed.

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How to use your emergency kit

If you live in an area that is likely to be affected by a hurricane, you must have an emergency kit ready.

This kit should include provisions for basic needs such as food and water, first-aid supplies, tools to help stay safe during the storm, and communication supplies.

When assembling your emergency kit, consider where you will be during the storm.

If you are staying in your home, ensure enough food and water for at least three days, sturdy shelter materials like tarps and sheets, a generator or battery-powered radio, and emergency candles.

If evacuation is necessary, make sure to have essential items like money, passports, and medication.

If you are evacuating southeast Texas during Hurricane Harvey, take extra precautions if traveling through areas affected by flooding.

Make sure to pack clothes and shoes that can be worn in both rain and floods, transportation information (including routes recommended by local authorities), copies of important documents like driver’s licenses and passports, chargers for electronic devices including phones and tablets, snacks and water bottles in case of long delays due to road closures or flooded roads.

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Conclusion

Hurricane season is upon us, and preparations are underway in many areas. Everyone must have a proper emergency kit to be as prepared as possible.

This kit should include food, water, shelter, first aid supplies, and more. Double-check the list of items below to ensure you have everything you need to survive a hurricane.

And if you find yourself in the path of a hurricane, remember: stay safe and listen to your local officials!