By Champale Watkins, Disaster Recovery and Research Intern

As we prepare for the 2019 hurricane season, it is important to begin thinking about how to prepare in case a hurricane strikes and evacuation is necessary. When a storm is near it is difficult and time consuming to remember and pack all the items one may need to guarantee safety for themselves, children, and pets. Small children and pets have unique needs that require additional items to take into consideration when preparing. Save time by packing a Go Bag (Emergency Hurricane Kit) in a waterproof container in advance. If you do not plan on evacuating, this checklist can be used to prepare for power outages. Even if you plan on staying at home, still prepare a bag in case you are forced to evacuate. Below you will find a list of suggestions to think about when you are preparing your go bag this hurricane season.

* Remember to check expiration dates on food and medications.

HURRICANE GO BAG

1 Non-perishable food – 3-day supply (2-week supply if staying home) 16 Multi-purpose tools and scissors
2 Water – 3-day supply (one gallon per person) (2-week supply if staying home) 17 Personal hygiene items (toothbrush, toothpaste, soap)
3 Can opener 18 Sanitation items
4 Paper towels and plates, plastic cups and utensils 19 Change of clothes – At least 3 days
5 Baby supplies (bottles, formula, food, diapers) 20 Sturdy shoes
6 Towels 21 Rain jacket/poncho
7 Medication – 7-day supply 22 Sleeping bags/Blankets for each person
8 Medical items (hearing aid, glasses, contact lenses) 23 ID and Cash
9 First Aid Kit 24 Personal documents (medical information, passports, birth certificates, proof of address)
10 Whistle 25 Family/Emergency contact information
11 Flashlight 26 Local maps
12 Cell phone and charger 27 Fuel for car and generator
13 Battery powered radio 28 Insect repellent
14 Extra batteries 29 Sunblock
15 Matches in a waterproof container

 Speacial Items for Children

 1 Coloring books (pencils, pens, markers, crayons)
 2 Favorite stuffed animal
 3 Deck of cards
 4 Books
 5 Games
 6 Puzzles
 7 Favorite blanket

 

PET HURRICANE PREPAREDNESS

1 Food – 3 to 5-day supply (or two weeks) 13 Medical Records
2 Water – 3 to 5-day supply (or two weeks) 14 Pet First Aid Book and Kit
3 Bowls and Feeders 15 Important documents (registration, adoption, and vaccination)
4 Can opener 16 Veterinarian contact information
5 Microchip pets 17 Disposable litter box
6 Carrier with contact information and name of pet 18  Paper towels
7 Collar and Leash 19 Trash bags
8 Tags with contact information 20 Soap
9 Description of pet (species, breed, age, sex, color, distinguishing characteristics) 21 Disinfectant
10 Picture of pet 22 Treats
11 Medicine – 2-week supply 23 Toys
12 Flea and Tick medication/Heartworm preventative – 1-month supply 24 Bedding

* Some shelters only allow service animals. Locate pet friendly hotels or boarding facilities.

References and Additional Information:

1. Are You Ready! Retrieved from https://www.fema.gov/media-library-data/35f3ff58f7cc6a2047fdb1e8bae8466b/FEMA_checklist_child_508_071513.pdf

2. Disaster Preparedness. Retrieved from https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/general-pet-care/disaster-preparedness

3. Disaster Preparedness for Your Pet. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/features/petsanddisasters/index.html

4. Pets and Animals. Retrieved from https://www.ready.gov/animals

5. Proper Emergency Kit Essential to Hurricane Preparedness. Retrieved from https://www.fema.gov/news-release/2018/08/16/proper-emergency-kit-essential-hurricane-preparedness

6. Survival Kit Supplies. Retrieved from https://www.redcross.org/get-help/how-to-prepare-for-emergencies/survival-kit-supplies.html

 

 

 

 

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