The Atlantic Hurricane season is here, through November 30th, and with an above-average season predicted for 2020 (according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration), now’s the time to start preparing while items are in-store and available – especially in the midst of COVID-19, when making it to the store isn’t as easy or ideal. As always, some basic hurricane supplies to keep in mind include:
- 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.
- Bottled Water: at least one gallon per person per day, for at least three days is widely recommended (if the time comes)
- Disposable Serving Ware: plastic utensils, paper plates and bowls, napkins / paper towels, 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, toilet paper, deodorant, dry shampoo, contact lenses and solution, hearing aids, insect repellant, cotton balls and swabs
- Sanitation Supplies: disinfectant wipes and/or spray, hand sanitizer
- Baby Supplies (if needed): disposable 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
- Pet Supplies (if needed): pet food, collar, leash, bowls, carrier, pet bed and toys, cleaning supplies / disposable bags
- 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)
- Manual Can Opener
- Candles, Lighter/Matches
- Books, Magazines, Games, etc.
- Cash
Below are a few helpful articles and checklists to refer to as well:
- FEMA’s “How to Prepare for a Hurricane”
- Red Cross Hurricane Safety Checklist
- Red Cross Recommended First-Aid Kit Essentials
- First-Aid Kit Essentials for Infants/Children
- State of Florida’s “Essential Guide to Hurricane Preparedness”
- CDC’s Hurricane Supplies Checklist
- How to Prep Your Business for a Hurricane
- The Ready Business Program – Hurricane Toolkit for Business Owners
- Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety’s “Prepare for Hurricanes” Articles
Throughout the past few years, Combat Veterans to Careers has raised funds and provided direct assistance for Florida veterans in need before, during and after natural disasters, like hurricanes Matthew and Irma. We will continue to serve and provide for our combat veterans and their families should the need arise.
If you are interested in being on-call in case of disaster relief, please fill out our Volunteer Application denoting your interest in the Disaster Response Volunteer position and/or financial support contact person in case of emergency. As always, we greatly appreciate your support for our local combat veterans and their families!
