We all know Mother Nature can really pack a punch. To help lessen the blow, follow our top storm prep tips and guides to stay safe and prepare for the unexpected. And be ready for whatever gets thrown your way.
Create Your Basic Disaster Supply List
A basic emergency supply kit could include the following recommended items:
- Food (Non-perishable)
- Water (One gallon per person per day for several days – for both drinking and sanitation)
- Cell phone with chargers and backup batteries
- Extra batteries
- Flashlight
- First Aid Kit
- Battery-powered or hand crank radio
- Dust mask
If you have children or pets, here’s some other things you’ll want to consider adding to your storm prep kit:
- Pet food and supplies
- Books, games and activities for children
- Baby formula
- Diapers
- Bottles
We’ve covered the basics of what to include in your disaster kit, but let’s face it. You can never be too prepared. If you have additional space for more items in case of an emergency, consider the following:
- Fire extinguisher
- Cash or traveler’s checks
- Important documents
- Masks (for everyone ages 2 and above)
- Hand sanitizer/disinfecting wipes
- Maps
Assemble & Maintain Your Kit
To assemble your kit, store the items in airtight plastic bags. Put your entire disaster supplies kit in one or two easy-to-carry containers such as plastic bins or a duffel bag. Once assembled, remember to maintain it so prepared for when it’s needed. Keep all canned food in a cool, dry place and store boxed foods in tightly sealed plastic or metal containers. Always replace expired items as needed.
Periodically, re-think you and your family’s needs and update your kit accordingly. Maybe the last time you maintained your kit you didn’t have a dog, but now you do. Or your newborn infant is now a toddler and won’t need diapers, but they’ll need entertainment. Keep things like this in mind when building your kit so you know what will need to be updated or added.
Source: https://www.ready.gov/kit.
Our Top Storm Prep Tips
The tips below can help when you find yourself in a pinch.
Home Inventory:
Creating a home inventory before disaster strikes can help you replace your damaged belongings. Our Chief Claims Officer recommends using HouseBook.
Turn Your Washing Machine into a Cooler:
You may be filling up your fridge and freezer with ice to keep your food safe, but your washing machine most likely can store a lot more. Fill the drum of your washing machine with fresh ice to keep food cold.
Charge Up:
Even old laptops can be used as a power source when the lights go out. Periodically charge your laptops just in case. Always be prepared for power outages and know how to survive without electricity.
Takeaway
Storm prep doesn’t have to be painful. Advance planning can keep your family safe and make filing insurance claims easier later.