Essential Items to Remember When Preparing for Hurricane Season

We are now in hurricane season that runs from June 1 to Nov. 30 each year. According to the National Weather Service, an average of 12 tropical storms form each year, with six developing into hurricanes. The best time to prepare for a hurricane is before a storm forms, and we’re here to help! Here’s a simple guide with many essential items you’ll need to be prepared for hurricane season.

Building your Emergency Kit

At the start of hurricane season, be thinking about your emergency kit, which should include supplies and non-perishable food needed during and after a storm. Ready.gov recommends having enough supplies to last 72 hours.

It’s best to get your kit together early: When a hurricane forms, stores will become increasingly busy, resulting in out-of-stock essential items.

When picking non-perishable foods, try to stay away from foods that will make you thirsty and choose foods you know your family will eat. These items can be purchased at your local Publix!

Non-perishable foods ideal for an emergency kit include:

• Bottled water
• Individually packaged drinks (this includes powdered drink mixes)
• Crackers, cereals and cookies
• Canned meats, fruits and vegetables
• Peanut butter and jelly
• Loaves of bread
• Dried fruits
• Special dietary foods
• Powdered or shelf-stable milk
• Instant coffee and tea

Supplies should include:

• First aid kit. This kit should include bandages, antibacterial ointment, antiseptic wipes, aspirin and non-aspirin pain relievers, gauze, first aid tape, etc.
• Flashlights
• Batteries
• Candles
• Waterproof matches
• Body wipes
• Toilet paper

When putting together your emergency kit, it’s important to keep in mind each individual and their unique needs. Remember to refill prescriptions for yourself, your family or your pet.

Your emergency pet kit should include:

• Bottled water
• Pet carrier
• Cat litter and box
• Leash and collar
• Medications
• Pet food and dishes
• Vaccination records

If you are weathering a storm with a baby, some items to include are:

• Baby bottles
• Baby diapers and wipes
• Baby food and formula
• Blankets and toys

Multiple emergency kits can be made to be stored in your house or car. We want you to be safe this hurricane season! For more information on hurricane season preparedness, visit the National Weather Service and stay up to date on the tropics at the National Hurricane Center.