Ways to prepare for a hurricane may be common knowledge for coastal Texans who’ve weathered a storm or two, but in case you are a newbie, these tips will help.
Along with being armed with flashlights, batteries and a portable radio, you need to stock up your pantry because you may be stuck at home for days because of floods or power outages.
Here are some nonperishable food suggestions:
- Water (1 gallon per person per day)
- Bread (rolls and muffins also are good)
- Crackers
- Peanut butter
- Cereal
- Powdered milk
- Condensed milk
- Granola bars
- Canned soup
- Canned vegetables
- Canned beans
- Popped popcorn
- Chips and pretzels
- Nuts and/or trail mix
- Fruit that lasts such as apples and oranges
Also consider stocking up on soap, paper towels and toilet paper.
Have all your baby supplies stocked.
More Tips
Consider freezing water bottles or plastic bags that can keep the freezer cool and help refrigerated food last longer in the event there’s no electricity. In addition, freeze wash cloths ahead of time to keep yourself cool when there is no air conditioning.
Keep your important legal documents and go-to items such as a week’s worth of medications in a safe place. Keep extra eyeglasses and contact lenses safe and easily accessible, too.
Buy some backup batteries.
Be sure you have a first aid kit.
If you live on the coast or near it, you may need to evacuate. For others in cities such as Houston that are located inland, riding out the storm at home is recommended. Taping or boarding up windows is not necessary for inland residents.
Do your laundry now, as you may be without a washer and dryer for some time.
A lot of people fill their bathtubs with water before a hurricane because a hurricane can mess with water pipes, and the water in a filled tub can be used to help flush toilets, or you could wash up with the water. But remember if you have small kids to make sure they don’t play near the bathtub full of water.
Connect with your family members to make sure everyone has a plan in place and the supplies they need.
