Folks Should Have A Hurricane Kit

By Eric Holm

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.

Hurricane preparedness and kits should contain basic necessities, such as several gallons of clean drinking water and non-perishable food. However, you must regularly check the food and change the water in your hurricane emergency kits every six months. Your kits would not be of any help if they contain food and water supply that is stale or expired. Since there will definitely be power outage or unavailability of gas, you should also include candles, flashlights, transistor radio and waterproof matches in your kits. It would be better if the flashlight and the transistor radio that you use are hand-cranked so you do not have to think about buying 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.

Also, pack some clothes, blankets, personal hygiene and sanitation implements, medicine and other basic items that your family needs and if you have pets, small children or elderly folks living with you, include items that they will need as well.

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