"Weather is unpredictable, you don't have to be..."
Picture it... the local news has taken over your TV programming with radar images full of scary weather animations and they're repeatedly telling you a storm is coming. Since hurricanes tend to move at a glacial pace, you'll start hearing about it a week in advance and while you've got time to get ready, so does everyone else. It's the coastal version of the media conning everyone into running out to buy milk and eggs. Before long, the store shelves will be empty, so let's get a move on!
To be safe, we're told to prepare for three days without power. Well, I’m here to tell you that we’ve gone seven days without power in the past and that is a very LONG time to be without A/C during summer. Luckily, there was only two of us to feed and the stores opened back up by day three but lots of people had it much worse. So, the storm arrives, you hunker down and now The Night the Lights Went Out in Georgia has new meaning to ya.
The first few days are like camping or “glamping” really. You’ve been prepared for a week or longer, constantly listening for the weather updates, all your snacks stocked and calling your name, movies downloaded, hopefully you remembered the wine and beer. But by day 4 or 5, you’ve had enough and in the south, during storm season, it’s HOT…
So, based on unwelcome experience, here's my Hurricane Season Preparedness Checklist so you can be ready too. ✔️
Tip # 1 - Prepare and secure your home.
High winds cause debris and we want to prevent as many flying objects as we can without contributing to more damage.
Trim trees and shrubs.
Tie down or bring outdoor furniture and plants indoors.
Board up windows and doors as needed.
Get sandbags if flooding is an issue.
Tip # 2 - Always keep frozen water bottles in the freezer, not just during hurricane season!
This is something we do ALL YEAR LONG! (Also, good for your camping/boating coolers but that's another post.) If you do loose power, the frozen bottles will help keep the fridge cold a bit longer too.
Tip # 3 - Fill up bathtubs with fresh water.
You may need to utilize this water for a ‘spit’ bath or to flush the toilet during an outage. Keep a bucket and/or cups nearby to aid in washing dishes or hands.
Tip # 4 - Gas up your vehicles.
Keep your vehicles fueled up in case of evacuation or if you need to travel when the storm passes. After one event in particular, EVERYTHING was closed for 2 days and it was very creepy to see gas stations boarded up. Don't be the person who hops in the car, only to find the tank on "E" in an emergency.
Tip # 5 - Get a generator.
Purchase a generator for backup power, but be sure to follow safety guidelines and never operate it indoors. We’ve had a Yamaha generator like this for 5 years and it has been a champion. So much so, it's easy for even me to operate. We also take it camping to power devices, fans, and lights etc. Make sure you have extra cans of gas available for refilling as needed.
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Tip # 6 - At least a 3 day supply of water & food.
Minimally, you should acquire one gallon of water per person, per day. Always have on hand non perishible food items like your favorite canned goods, crackers, jerky, juice, gatorade, etc. (Ibuprofen is also a necessary component 😉)
Tip # 7 - Charge all phones/devices and download movies/shows.
This goes without saying, for both safety and sanity. Even before upcoming flights, I love to have a few Netflix movies/shows at the ready and downloaded on my device in case I don't have WiFi access.
Tip # 8 - Make sure you have cash.
If there's no power, ATMs may be unavailable and stores can't run credit card machines. So, if they manage to be open, bring cash just in case.
Tip # 9 - Battery operated radio.
Get one of those old school battery-powered radios so you can stay up to date on news and weather from local authorities or even music to pass the time. Stay informed with NOAA weather radio for receiving alerts and information.
Tip # 10 - Battery Tote.
Keep your batteries organized in one place because it's hard to remember which kind goes with what product, especially when rushing around. Not only useful for emergencies, it's nice to have them ready for camping or daily use. Plus, you’ll know when to put them on your grocery list if running low.
Tip # 11 - Keep flashlights in each room.
Stumbling around in the dark is no fun and can be scary for the littles. It's good to double check that you have some emergency lighting options for when the sun goes down.
DON'T USE CANDLES!
Tip # 12 - Fire extinguishers.
We keep one under the sink, on the patio by the grill, and one in the garage.
Tip # 13 - Emergency medical supply kit.
Every home should always have a basic emergency kit on hand. Stocking your prescription medications, allergy needs, first aid and ibuprofen is one less thing to worry about during an emergency. It's also wise to include water, non-perishable food, flashlight, batteries, and important documents. *Remember to make arrangements for any medical equipment that requires electricity as well.
Tip # 14 - Know the location of important documents.
Insurance, medical history, wills, passports, personal identification, phone numbers, passwords. Preferably somewhere waterproof.
Tip # 15 - Pet Care Items if applicable.
If you have pets, make sure they have a 3 day supply of food, water, and medicine too. It can't hurt to identify pet-friendly shelters or accommodations as well.
Tip # 16 - Evacuation Plan.
Research your evacuation routes and have a plan in place for where you would go if you need to evacuate. Keep in mind transportation and accommodation options.
Tip # 17 - WRITE DOWN important phone numbers of family members and emergency services.
You could lose or break your cell phone and need to use someone else’s but who actually memorizes numbers anymore?? Anyone? Not me. So do yourself a favor and take a moment to create a list to keep with your other important documents in a safe place. Include local emergency services, utilities, insurance providers, and family member's contact information.
Establish a communication plan with family and friends in case you are separated during the storm. Ensure everyone knows how to contact each other by texting/emailing a list of important numbers/instructions to loved ones and update it as necessary.
Tip # 18 - Post-Storm Safety.
Be cautious of hazards like downed power lines, floodwaters, and debris after the storm has passed. Follow instructions from local authorities before going out or returning home.
Always stay aware even when the weather clears.
Hopefully these items will give you a sense of safety and security during a weather event. Anything that helps us relieve a bit of stress is welcome, huh?! Preparation is key to safety during hurricanes so, stay informed, have a plan, and be ready to act quickly if necessary. Click the following link for a free pdf checklist with even more items you can print for reference.
Stay safe!
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