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I dislike Hurricane Season as much as the next person who lives on the coast.
It is one of the evils we have to deal with. As if the heat isnt enough!
I have been through one Hurricane. Yes only one. I was in New Orleans right before Katrina hit. We were lucky we got out. If we had waited 24 hours I have no doubt in my mind we would of been stuck there when the storm hit. We evacuated for Rita as well but we decided we could handle Hurricane Ike. I was pregnant with Jake at the time. I do not recommend it. We were without power for a week and while we were prepared with the supplies we needed, mentally I was NOT ready for it. I stayed up practically all night listening to the storm outside, wondering and waiting if a tree was going to fall on the house or was the roof going to get ripped off by the wind. The wind howled something fierce. The power went out very early into the storm and it took a week for it to come back on. That was miserable. The kids did not understand the fact that the TV wouldn’t work and that we could not open and close the fridge a thousand times. Luckily my parents met me half way and took the kids home with them for a few days. They also took our laundry and washed it for me. The stress was intense and when you are pregnant it feels like it multiplies. I was checked out that week by my doctor and the baby was fine. Thankfully!
I wanted to share these great lists with everyone that tell you what you need before, during and after a storm hits your area. maybe you have your own list and that is great but these list may be missing from your list.
Before the Storm
- Car tank filled with gasoline
- Fire extinguisher
- First aid supplies and prescription medications
- Sterno, charcoal, lighter fluid, and matches or a lighter
- Candles and matches
- Flashlight, battery-operated radio and a two-week supply of batteries
- Bottled water, electrolyte drinks and cooler with gel packs
- Hammer, nails, masking tape, plywood and plastic for quick home repairs
- Clean up supplies – pails, mops, brooms and rakes
- Non-perishable food items, eating utensils, plates, cups and a manual can opener
- Protective clothing, rain gear and sturdy shoes
As the Storm Approaches
- Purchase the recommended emergency supplies
- Monitor weather reports on ABC-13 for updated information
- Store enough drinking water to last several days
- Bring your pets indoors
- Clear your yard of any loose or unsecured objects
- Tape or board windows to reduce the risk of broken glass
- Get extra cash. ATMs may be out of order after a severe storm
- Keep your car fueled and ready to go
- Leave your home if asked to evacuate
During the Storm
- Stay inside, away from windows, skylights and glass doors.
- Keep supply of flashlights and extra batteries handy. Avoid open flames, such as candles and kerosene lamps, as a source of light.
- If power is lost, turn off major appliances to reduce power “surge” when electricity is restored.
- Listen constantly to a battery-operated radio or television for official instructions.
- If in a mobile home, check tiedowns and evacuate immediately.
- Store valuables and personal papers in waterproof containers on the highest level of your home.
- *Those choosing to ride out the storm should move valuables to upper floors if possible, fill containers or tubs with several days’ worth of drinking water, turn refrigerator to coldest setting and stay indoors on the downwind side of house, away from windows.
- *Beware the eye of the storm. Live power lines, rising water and unstable trees and structures continue to be threats despite the temporary calm.
- *Once the all-clear is sounded, be wary of high water or power lines when driving. Report damaged water, sewer and electrical lines. At home, check for gas leaks and spoiled food or water.
Stock Up Now
- Battery operated radio
- Flashlight
- Extra batteries
- At least three gallons of water per person
- Minimum three day supply of non-perishable food
- First aid kit
- Non-electric can opener; utility knife
- Paper cups, plates, and plastic utensils
- Duct and masking tape
- Pencil and paper
- Needles and thread
- Matches in a waterproof container
- Assorted nails, wood screws and rope
- Pliers, screwdrivers, hammer and crowbar
- Cash or traveler’s checks and change
- Disinfectant, household chlorine bleach, soap, and liquid detergent
- Personal hygiene items
- Sunglasses, rain gear, hat and gloves, sturdy shoes or work boots
- Blankets or sleeping bags
- Important telephone numbers
- I think these lists are a great place to start. Do you have something you would add to the list as you prepare for this Hurricane Season?
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