Supply list and plan

Have your plan made and your supplies stocked by June 1. Once a warning is issued, your time should go to securing your home, not shopping. Download the printable checklist

 

Make a family emergency plan

  1. Decide where you will go if you must evacuate, ideally with family or friends outside the evacuation area.

  2. Choose an out-of-town contact everyone will call or text to check in.

  3. List phone numbers for family, neighbors, doctors and pharmacies, on paper as well as your phone.

  4. Arrange help for older adults, people with disabilities and pets.

  5. Learn how to shut off your water, gas and electricity.

  6. Store important documents in a waterproof container.

Disaster supply list

Water and food

  • At least 1 gallon of water per person per day for 7 days, plus water for pets

  • 7-day supply of non-perishable food

  • Manual can opener and basic cooking utensils

Power and communication

  • Battery-powered or hand-crank radio

  • Flashlights and extra batteries (no candles)

  • Fully charged phone, power bank and car charger

  • Whistle to signal for help

Safety and household

  • Cash (ATMs and card readers may be down)

  • ABC fire extinguisher

  • Matches in a waterproof container

  • Extra clothing, blankets and sleeping bags

  • Battery-powered carbon monoxide alarm if you will use a generator

Health and hygiene

  • First-aid kit

  • Prescription medicines (at least 7 days), eyeglasses, hearing aids and batteries

  • Hand sanitizer, wipes, toilet paper and hygiene products

  • Masks and gloves

  • Mosquito repellent and sunscreen

Documents

  • Copies of IDs, insurance policies, prescriptions and a recent utility bill

  • Birth, marriage and adoption certificates, Social Security cards, passports, wills and bank information

  • Photos or video of your home and belongings for insurance

Vehicle

  • Full tank of gas when a watch is issued

  • Tire repair kit, jumper cables and flares

Children and pets

  • Formula, baby food, diapers, toys and games

  • Pet carriers, leashes, food, medicines and vaccination records

Storing water

  1. Wash containers with soap and water and rinse well.

  2. Sanitize with 1 tablespoon of unscented bleach per gallon of water; let stand 10 minutes, empty and rinse.

  3. Fill with tap water once a hurricane warning is issued.

  4. Freeze a few containers two-thirds full to keep food cold after the power goes out.

Keep the kit in an easy-to-carry container near your most-used exit. Check it every year before June 1.

 

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