Hurricane Ready!
Being prepared in advance is better than waiting to the last minute to go shopping for supplies and gas. Supplies run low very quickly during this season, so stock up in advance so you can avoid the shopping madness.
Remove all objects in the yard that could get damaged or serve as a flying projectile. Secure gas grills as best as possible in a safe place to avoid propane hazards.
Some things to have on hand & ideas for preparation:
Gas up.
Rev up the generator!
Water. One gallon per person, per day (prepare for about a week). I keep about 5 five-gallon buckets of water for washing and fill the tub up.
Electric portable water filter- varies in price
Rations. Food that does not spoil is your friend. Try to stockpile foods & goods before season (it will get used eventually) don't forget about the fur babies.
Batteries and/or portable power bank outlet for charging phones/computers. A portable li-ion battery would be ideal to have on hand. Batteries for flashlights. Generators are great!
If it looks like a really bad hurricane, it might be best to switch off the main electrical panel to prevent accidental fires.
Candles/lighters
First aid kit, medication, sanitary wipes & cleaning supplies
Backpack with clothes/necessities & all-important documentation in a safe water proofed location
Knife, black permanent markers, duct tape, garbage bags (for waterproofing or for garbage)
Sand bags for blocking door ways, wood or hurricane shutters for windows
Blankets and towels and a place for drying them & clothing.
Chainsaw/ax for fallen trees
If your electric flickers, turn your AC unit off. This will help preserve your AC.
Some books or whatever helps keep you calm
Pets: I have draped a blanket around my dog when she looks like she was having anxiety, this seemed to help calm her. Keep heavy blankets for them to hide in if that helps. I keep anxiety medication on hand to help them with the noise. Usually they all hide in the beds (my cat never seems to worry much tho).
Emergency plan of action. Go over plan with family & have a meeting point. Know where closest hurricane shelter is located. If you have to evacuate, do not hesitate and just go!
Have go bags packed and ready to go with all pertinent necessities. Cages & supplies for fur babies. Pack only the essentials and survival tools allowed in shelters.
https://www.brevardfl.gov/EmergencyManagement/BePrepared/Step3HaveAPlan/Shelters
After the storm: Avoid all standing water as it could be electrifying. https://www.bulsuk.com/2012/11/electrified-flood-waters-how-to-test.html
Watch for falling tree limbs & downed electrical lines
Rubber boots are a good thing to have if you have to wade through water
Drive slowly and carefully. Sometimes traffic lights are down and sometimes roads are damaged
I like Mikes Spaghetti Models for hurricane updates & forecasts.
There are some great videos with more helpful tricks: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BmD9bLfz8RA
I always keep tools, food and flashlights and extras in my car as well and you should too.
Be safe out there!
Shannon
