Here are tips from Geico, the National Hurricane Center and the Insurance Information Institute:
Hurricane Preparedness
• Determine escape routes and places where your family can meet.
• Know your home's vulnerability to storm surge, flooding and wind.
• Locate a safe room in your home or the safest area in your community.
• Have an out-of-state friend as a family contact.
• Plan what to do with your pets if you need to evacuate.
• Post emergency telephone numbers by your phones. Teach your children how to call 911.
• Check your insurance coverage; flood damage is not usually covered by homeowners insurance.
• Trim trees to remove un-healthy or dead limbs or branches.
Emergency Supplies
• water-one gallon daily per person for three to seven days
• food-enough for three to seven days
• nonperishable packaged or canned food/juices-foods for infants or the elderly
• nonelectric can opener
• cooking tools/fuel
• paper plates/plastic utensils
• blankets/pillows, etc.
• clothing-seasonal/rain gear/ sturdy shoes
• first-aid kit/medicines/prescription drugs
• special items for babies and the elderly
• toiletries/hygiene items/moisture wipes
• flashlight/batteries
• radio-battery-operated radio and National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) weather radio. Replace the batteries every six months.
• cash-banks and ATMs may not be open for extended periods.
• keys
• photographs
• computer hard drive or laptop
• toys, books and games
• important documents-in a waterproof container including insurance, medical records, bank account numbers, etc.
• tools-keep a set with you during the storm
• vehicle fuel tanks filled
• pet care items
• proper identification/immunization records/medications
• food and water
• a carrier or cage
• muzzle and leash
Added Preparedness
• Take first-aid, CPR and disaster preparedness classes.
