Why Everyone Should Put Together A Hurricane Kit

It seems as though hurricanes are more prevalent than ever. Some contribute the recent onslaught of category 4 and 5 storms to global warming. Whatever the reason, getting caught off guard when a major storm does roll through is horrifying and can be deadly. It is particularly wise for folks residing in hurricane-prone areas to practice preparedness. But frankly, storms are unpredictable and it would not hurt anyone to put together a hurricane kit and be ready for the possibility of something bad.

Especially in the wake of some recent disastrous storms like Katrina and Rita, people are starting to realize that being prepared in the case of such a deadly storm is worth the effort. Folks who live in hurricane zones should make any necessary repairs to their homes well before hurricane season comes. This means checking for leaks all over the house: roofs, ceilings, windows, basements and cellars. Cracks need to be repaired as does anything that might make a home more vulnerable to the heavy rain and fierce winds that come with hurricanes. A specific plan of action should be planned out so that everyone knows what to do should the time come. Make certain that provisions are made for the elderly, the disabled or any small children.

Being prepared includes having a hurricane kit that contains all the basic necessities. This would include a supply of non perishable food as well as several gallons of clean drinking water. Every six months, it would be a good idea to go and check the food for expiration dates and replace the water with a fresh supply. Outdated, stale food will be of no use when the time comes that you need it. Likely, there will be no electricity for at least a while. Kits should thus contain candles, waterproof matches, flashlights and a transistor radio. The hand cranked versions of radios and flashlights are the best choices since there will be no worry about having to have enough batteries.

There is a big chance that your home will not survive the hurricane, so you should not forget to include important documents as part of your emergency kits. Just make sure that you put important papers inside waterproof document storage bags. You should also add into your hurricane emergency kits tools like shovels, axes and machetes to help you gather wood for cooking or help your family get out in case you are trapped inside your home.

Do not forget any items that kids, elderly people or pets might need. Nobody wants to worry because they do not have access to their medicines and cannot get to a pharmacy to have prescriptions refilled. Put unfilled prescriptions in with the important documents. Other miscellaneous items to include are some clothes, blankets, and personal hygiene and sanitary products.