Hurricane season has already begun; however, it is far from over. Until November 30, make sure you are prepared in case a storm comes your way. Here are a few things you can do to prepare for a hurricane:

Build an Emergency Kit

You may need to survive on your own for a few days after a hurricane. Being prepared means having your own food, water and other supplies to last for at least 72 hours. A disaster supplies kit is a collection of basic items your household may need in the event of an emergency.

Basic supplies you should have in an emergency kit:

• Water – 1 gallon per person per day for 3 to 7 days
• Food – non-perishable and canned food supply for 3 to 7 days
• Battery-powered or hand crank radio with extra batteries
• Cell phone with charger
• First aid kit and first aid book
• Flashlight and extra batteries
• Manual can opener for food
• Anti-bacterial hand wipes or gel
• Wrench or pliers to turn off water
• Blanket or sleeping bag – 1 per person
• Prescription medications and glasses
• Seasonal change of clothing, including sturdy shoes
• Toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, feminine supplies
• Extra house and car keys
• Important documents: insurance policies, copy of driver’s license, Social Security card, bank account records
• Fire extinguisher
• Cash and change
• Books, games or cards

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Create a Family Communication Plan

You and your loved ones may not be together when a disaster hits. Make a plan for how you will connect to each other.

Download a Family Emergency Plan worksheet

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Know your Evacuation Route

Know the evacuation route from your location and the amount of time needed to evacuate. Think about where you will go.

Evacuation Route and Storm Surge Zone Maps

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The Importance of Water

Stocking an emergency water supply should be one of your top priorities so you will have enough water on hand for yourself and your family.

While individual needs will vary depending on age, physical condition, activity, diet and climate, a normally active person needs at least two quarts of drinking water daily. Children, nursing mothers and people who are ill need more water.

Very hot temperatures can also double the amount of water needed. Because you will also need water for sanitary purposes, and possibly for cooking, you should store at least one gallon of water per person per day.

When storing water, use thoroughly washed plastic, fiberglass or enamel-lined containers. Don’t use containers that can break, such as glass bottles. Never use a container that has held toxic substances. Camping supply stores offer a variety of appropriate containers.

Plastic containers, like soda bottles, are best. Seal your water containers tightly, label them and store them in a cool, dark place. It is important to change stored water every six months.

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Stay Informed with 2-1-1: 

Dial 2-1-1 from any phone to reach a compassionate, trained call specialist 24/7/365 who has access to real-time information on shelters, evacuation routes, and more. Our 2-1-1 call specialists can also help you find food, meal sites, water, and other recovery and rebuilding resources after a disaster, as well.

For more hurricane resources visit: uwcf.org/hurricane