How to Prepare Your Home and Family For a Hurricane

Hurricanes are not to be taken lightly. They are one of the most devastating natural disasters that occur, bringing torrential rain, ferocious wind gusts, and storm surges that can easily level homes and destroy public buildings, causing millions of dollars worth of damage.

While hurricanes are most common along coastal areas, those living inland may still be impacted by the hurricane’s path, especially for larger, more powerful storm systems. However, there are simple measures you and your family can take to stay safe and protect your home and personal belongings. Remember, it’s never too early to prepare for a hurricane, especially if you live in a coastal, hurricane-prone area.

Preparing for the hurricane starts with creating a family hurricane preparedness guide or hurricane preparedness plan. This guide should contain vital information such as where you and your family will meet in the event you are separated, a list of nearby shelters, and more. Review this guide with your family at the beginning of every hurricane season, if not more often.

Before each hurricane season, stock up on non-perishable canned food items and water for drinking, bathing, and cleaning. The average person needs nearly a gallon of water per day, while pets require about half this amount. Keep this in mind when stocking up on supplies. If you choose to stay at home, fill your bathtub with water. This water can be used for flushing your toilet, cleaning, or washing oneself. Also, be sure to cook and freeze all fresh meat or perishable food items, as well as make plenty of ice. It helps to have a cooler or two set aside for food and ice storage.

Aside from stocking up on food, be sure to refill all prescription medication before the hurricane lands in your area. There may be a possibility that you will not be able to travel for some time, or pharmacies will be closed. As such, be sure to have an ample amount of all your family’s prescription medication, in addition to over the counter medication for pain, nausea, and other ailments. Also, keep several first aid kits on hand.

When preparing for the hurricane, it’s also important to keep a large supply of batteries for flashlights, radios, and other devices. Also, stock up on candles, matches, and lighters. It may be a good idea to purchase a generator in the event the power goes out. Be sure to keep your mobile devices charged, and store chargers in a waterproof area. Additionally, store all important financial and legal documents in waterproof plastic bags or safes.

It’s also a good idea to keep a full tank of gas in your vehicle, in addition to keeping extra gasoline on hand. Secure all outdoor furniture or other items that may get blown away.

Preparing for the hurricane doesn’t have be difficult, but requires organization and attention to detail to ensure all your bases are covered. Following these steps will help you and your family stay safe while weathering the storm. Helpful info also found here: storm-solutions.net