Living in an area that experiences hurricane season for six months out of the year, we need to be prepared. A great way to do a bit of pre-planning so that you're not panicking when a hurricane is on its way is to put together a Hurricane Preparedness Kit.
I recently put together my hurricane preparedness kit using a list I received from the Myrtle Beach Fire Department. Below is the list of items the fire department suggests you have and a recent Financial Friday Community Panel on hurricane preparedness. On this panel, I was joined by Frank Johnson, WBTW News13 Chief Meteorologist, and Aaron Clay, Captain with the Myrtle Beach Fire Department.
Items Needed for a Hurricane Preparedness Kit:
1. Water Storage- 2 gallons per person for 3-7 days
2. Food- at least enough for 3-7 days, non-perishable packaged or canned foods/juices
3. Manual/non-electric can opener
4. Cooking Tools/ Fuel
5. Specific Foods/ Sanitation items for infants and elderly
6. Fire Extinguisher
7. Paper Plates/Plastic Utensils
8. Warm Blankets/Sleeping Bags, Pillows, etc.
9. Clothing- seasonal/ rain gear/ sturdy shoes
10. First Aid Kit/ Medicine/ Prescription Drugs
11. Hygiene Items, toilet paper, moist towelettes, garbage bags with plastic ties
12. Basic Tool Kit- wrench/pliers to turn off utilities
13. Vehicle fuel tanks filled
14. Flashlight with extra batteries
15. Radio- battery or crank operated & NOAA weather radio
16. Fully charged cell phone with charger, car charger, and/or solar charger
17. Important Documentation- proper identification, family emergency contacts, immunization and medical records, insurance policies, bank account numbers, social security cards, etc.
18. Video Documentation of all Valuables
19. Cash
20. Keys
21. Special Items- for babies and the elderly
22. Toys, Books, Games
23. Pet food and water for 3-7 days
24. Pet leash, carrier, and harness
25. Pet immunization records and ID
Hurricane Preparedness Financial Friday Community Panel: