Are you ready for a hurricane?
If you haven’t already started planning, it’s not too late. With Hurricane Irene setting its sights on the US east coast, now’s the time to make sure you have a hurricane preparedness plan in place – especially if you’re within a few hours of the coast (we all know hurricanes can wreak havoc well inland).
PLAN NOW
Here are a few tips to help make sure you’re prepared:
- Establish a written emergency plan for your family and your business
- Review insurance coverage for your home and business. Be sure to check your flood insurance eligibility (homeowner insurance doesn’t typically cover flood damage).
- If you live in a hurricane evacuation zone, make sure you have an evacuation plan. Know the route you’ll use if you’re told to evacuate.
- Know where emergency shelters are located in your area.
- Agree on a place where family members can meet if separated.
- Test your emergency equipment (generators, flashlights, etc.) in advance.
HURRICANE SURVIVAL KIT
You should have a hurricane survival kit that includes the following:
- At least a 3-day supply of water (1 gallon per person per day)
- Non-perishable food
- Baby needs (formula, diapers, etc.)
- First aid kit
- Manual can opener
- Medicines (prescription and non-prescription)
- Cell phones and battery-powered chargers
- Battery-powered weather radio
- Flashlights (and spare batteries)
- Cash
- Toiletries
- Sleeping bags and blankets
- Books, magazines, games
- Important documents (insurance, medical records, bank account numbers, SSN, etc.)
- MAKE SURE YOUR CAR IS FILLED WITH GAS!
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Here are a couple of excellent resources for further info:
The Weather Channel’s Hurricane Survival Kit
The National Weather Service’s Hurricane Preparedness Page
Do you have other tips? Share them in the comments space!
