It’s that time of year where hurricanes are on the mind for many coastal regions. In order to not be caught unprepared when one hits, you should make sure everything is in order ahead of time. As always, the best time to prepare for a hurricane is before one even develops. Here’s a list of things to check and prep before disaster strikes:

• Know your area. Make sure you have a copy of your evacuation route by contacting your local government or emergency management office or visiting their website.

• Write and review your family’s emergency plan. Discuss with your family members and friends your plan of action, including how to contact each other, where to go and what to do in an emergency. Also, communicate this plan with someone not in the hurricane’s path. Make sure to keep a copy of this plan in a safe place as well.

• Double check insurance policies. It never hurts to make sure you have adequate coverage for your personal properties.

• Plan for your pets. Discuss with friends and family as well as shelters not in the area ahead of time so your furry friends will have a safe place if you cannot take them.

Lastly, an emergency kit lasting several days is extremely important. Everyone in your family or group should know the location of this kit. Here’s a few things to keep in one:

• Water and non-perishable food

• Pet food and extra water

• Infant formula, diapers, bottles and other baby supplies

• Paper cups, plates, paper towels and plastic utensils

• Battery powered radio and a NOAA Weather Radio as well as extra batteries

• Flashlights, a fire extinguisher, a wrench or pliers and a manual can opener

• First aid kit, including masks, prescription and non-prescription medications, feminine products and prescription glasses and contact solution

• Moist towelettes and garbage bags

• Copies of important documents, cash and checks, cell phone and portable chargers, paper and pencils

• Warm blankets

• Extra change of clothes

• Books and games to pass the time

Taking these steps before a hurricane or tropical storm approaches will be one less thing to worry about when the time does come. With hurricane season beginning June 1st, it’s never too early to have these plans in place.

Source: weather.gov

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