2019 Florida Hurricane Preparedness

2019 Florida Hurricane Preparedness

Flooded streets of a residential neighborhood in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, as seen on the morning after Hurricane Irma comes through the city.

The Atlantic hurricane season is here until November 30, 2019, and with Hurricane Dorian approaching, now’s the time to make sure we’re prepared while items are in-store and widely available. We’ve gathered some basic supplies to consider stocking up on below, but please be sure to check multiple official sources (samples below) to cover all specific needs for your family, home and/or business. 

  • Non-perishable food items: applesauce, granola, protein bars, peanut butter / nut butters, jelly, beef / turkey jerky, pudding, cereal, cheese / peanut butter crackers, canned tuna, nuts, canned fruits / vegetables, trail mix, dried fruit, low-sodium soups, dry pasta, sports drinks, baby food, pet food, etc.
  • Water: at least one gallon per person per day, for at least three days is widely recommended
  • Disposable Serving Ware: plastic utensils, paper plates and bowls, napkins / paper towels; as well as a manual can opener
  • First-Aid Kit: Band-Aids of multiple sizes, pain relievers, antiseptic spray, hydrogen peroxide, rubbing alcohol, petroleum jelly, thermometer, iodine, antacid tablets, scissors, tweezers, hydrocortisone cream, antihistamines, roller bandages, gauze pads, etc.
  • Personal Hygiene and Health Supplies: baby wipes / wet cleaning cloths, garbage bags, hand sanitizer, toothpaste, tampons / pads, soap, deodorant, dry shampoo, contact lenses and solution, hearing aids, insect repellant, cotton balls and swabs, prescription medications and glasses, etc. 
  • Baby Supplies (if needed): diapers, baby wipes, lotion, diaper rash cream, bottles, powdered formula, nasal aspirator, teething oil / ointment, medicine dropper, baby gas drops, infant acetaminophen / ibuprofen, infant thermometer, etc. 
  • Pet Supplies (if needed): pet food, collars, leashes, bowls, portable carriers, pet beds and toys, cleaning supplies / disposable bags, extra water for each pet
  • Cooler(s) and Ice Packs
  • Clean Containers for Storing Water
  • Extra Batteries: be sure to check your items for the various battery sizes you may need
  • Flashlights and/or Battery-Operated Lanterns: recommended one for each family member
  • Battery-Powered, Solar or Hand-Crank Radio
  • Copies of Important Documents and Waterproof Containers to Store Them (including pets’ identification and medical history)
  • Books, Magazines, Games, etc. 
  • Candles and Matches
  • Fire Extinguisher
  • Fill Up All Gas Tanks (if needed)
  • Sandbags – See WKMG’s “Where to Find Sandbags in Your County” article (if needed)
  • Cash 

Below are a few other helpful articles and checklists to refer to as well:

 

Throughout the years, Combat Veterans to Careers has raised funds and provided direct assistance for Florida veterans in need during and after natural disasters, like hurricanes Matthew and Irma. We will continue to serve and provide for them should the need arise. Please keep an eye out for ways you can help via our emails, social media and blog postings.