Hurricane Emergency Survival Kit

In the Midst of a Pandemic

While it may feel like 2020 has already seen it’s fair share of craziness, it seems to be the case that things could always get crazier. We’re reaching the peak of the hurricane season (August – September), which means the chances of an unexpected major storm system is ever-increasing. While we would always encourage to plan ahead and prepare in advance, this year it seems to be especially important. In the midst of a worldwide pandemic, supplies for certain products are already scarce. Add to that the panic and chaos that ensues with an incoming hurricane, and you have a recipe for disaster. If you haven’t yet done so, please go through our Hurricane Checklist, and customize it to fit your households needs.

** 2020 Hurricane Season Update **

*updated 8/24/2020

Hurricane Isaias – While Isaias did not become a strong hurricane, it did reach category one hurricane winds at it’s peak, and the effects were felt along the full eastern coast of the US. Ranking in the top 5 of all time for power outages in New Jersey, more than 1.4 million homes and businesses lost power, putting this hurricane up there with Sandy and Irene. Don’t be fooled with the sustained winds of 85MPH, Isaias still managed to rack up over $4 Billion worth of damage and 18 fatalities.

Tropical Storm Fay – Fay made her rounds and caused several states including FL GA NJ NY and Ct to issue tropical storm warnings. Eventually making landfall near Atlantic city, Fay rapidly weakened, however not before causing major rip currents and large storm surge which resulted in the fatalities of 6 people.

Tropical Storm Laura & Tropical storm Marco – the 2020 record breaking storm season continues to break records. For the first time in recorded history 2 hurricanes will barrel through the Gulf, according to Colorado State University researcher Phil Klotzbach.

Laura is expected to reach hurricane strength as it heads into the Gulf of Mexico, and may affect Louisiana and Texas by mid-week.

Tropical storm Marco began to fall apart Monday, as it reached the coast of Louisiana, and is expected to fizzle out as it makes it way over Texas.

Emergency Survival Kit

After a hurricane, depending on where you live, you may need to shelter in place for a few days, and may experience power outage for up to two weeks. It’s always a good idea to plan for the worst, and hope for the best. This means having food supply, water, and basic essentials to last each person up to 72 hours. Consider the list below as a helpful guide to prepare for this hurricane season.

  • Water (one gallon per person per day for at least three days, for drinking and sanitation)
  • Food (at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food)
  • Battery-powered or hand crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert
  • Flashlight with batteries
  • First aid kit
  • Extra batteries
  • Whistle (to signal for help)
  • Face masks (for everyone ages 2 and above), soap, hand sanitizer, disinfecting wipes to disinfect surfaces.
  • Plastic sheeting and duct tape (to seal shut any broken windows or entries)
  • Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties (for personal sanitation)
  • Feminine supplies and personal hygiene items
  • Mess kits, paper cups, plates, paper towels and plastic utensils
  • 1 roll of toilet paper per person
  • Wrench or pliers (to turn off utilities)
  • Multi-purpose tool
  • Manual can opener (for food)
  • Local maps
  • Cell phone with chargers/portable chargers/solar paneled chargers.
  • battery powered or hand-crank radio (NOAA Weather Radio, if possible)
  • Insect repellent and sunscreen
  • Non-prescription medications such as pain relievers, anti-diarrhea medication, antacids or laxatives
  • Matches in a waterproof container
  • Rain gear
  • Extra cash
  • Extra change of clothes (at least 1 weeks worth per person)
  • Sleeping bag or warm blanket for each person
  • Important Documents in a mobile waterproof case (medication list/info, proof of address, deed/lease to home, passports, birth certificates, insurance policies, etc.)
  • Paper and pencil
  • Books, games, puzzles or other activities for children

  • If needed: Extra baby supplies (bottles, formula, diapers, baby food, etc.)
  • If needed: Extra pet supplies (collar, leash, ID, food, bowel, carrier, etc.)
  • If needed: Medications (2 week supply) and extra medical items (hearing aid with extra batteries, glasses, contact lenses, syringes, etc)

After assembling your kit remember to maintain it so it’s ready when needed. Keep canned food in a cool, dry place. Store boxed food in tightly closed plastic or metal containers. Replace expired items as needed. Re-think your needs every year and update your kit as your family’s needs change.

Stay prepared, stay safe!