If you live in a hurricane-prone area, your emergency kit should be ready before June 1 (the official start of hurricane season). Here's the complete list.
Water and Food
- 1 gallon of water per person per day (7-day supply minimum)
- Non-perishable food: canned goods, protein bars, peanut butter, crackers
- Manual can opener
- Baby formula/food and pet food if applicable
Power and Communication
- Battery-powered or hand-crank weather radio (NOAA frequencies)
- Flashlights with extra batteries
- Portable phone charger (20,000+ mAh)
- Car charger for phones
- Cash in small bills (ATMs won't work without power)
Safety and Medical
- First aid kit
- 7-day supply of prescription medications
- Important documents in waterproof bag (insurance, IDs, medical records)
- Whistle (to signal for help)
If Evacuating
Know your evacuation route and have a paper map (GPS may not work). Fill your gas tank before evacuations are ordered. Bring your emergency kit, important documents, and irreplaceable personal items. Leave early — don't wait for mandatory evacuation orders.
