How to be prepared for Hurricane Irma
As Hurricane Irma prepares to make landfall near the Caribbean, government agencies are warning those in the areas that could be hit to be prepared. Though the exact path of the storm is unknown at this time, several models of projection show the storm coming through the Carolinas.
Ready.gov gives several suggestions for building a disaster preparedness kit.
They suggest that each kit contain:
- Water – one gallon of water per person per day for at least three days, for drinking and sanitation
- Food – at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food
- Battery-powered or hand crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert
- Flashlight
- First aid kit
- Extra batteries
- Whistle to signal for help
- Important family documents such as copies of insurance policies, identification and bank account records saved electronically or in a waterproof, portable container
- Dust mask to help filter contaminated air and plastic sheeting and duct tape to shelter-in-place
- Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties for personal sanitation
- Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities
- Manual can opener for food
- Local maps
- Cell phone with chargers and a backup battery
Items should be stored in plastic bags and placed in containers that would be easy to carry in the event of an emergency.
Other items that should be included as needed in emergency kits:
- Prescription medications
- Glasses and contact lense solution
- Infant formula, bottles, diapers, wipes, diaper rash cream
- Pet food and extra water for your pet
- Cash or traveler’s checks
- Feminine supplies and personal hygiene items
- Mess kits, paper cups, plates, paper towels and plastic utensils
- Books, games, puzzles or other activities for children
