Getting Organized for the Big Storm

In our last blog, we talked about getting organized to evacuate in case of a weather emergency. Although that might happen in this coastal area, the most likely scenario is that we will wait out the storm in our homes. The kit that you have prepared in case of an evacuation will stand you in good stead by allowing you to have the documents and basic clothing you need available and protected fort eh elements. But the minimal evacuation supplies won’t see you through the preparation, endurance and aftermath of the storm. Many of you will remember when Isabel ripped through Hampton Roads leaving a path of destruction and many of us without power for over a week.

The American Red Cross website at http://www.redcross.org/ has a detailed list of suggested items for hurricane survival. We suggest you organize you supply gathering and storage into three separate phases.

Preparation for the Storm
Enduring the Storm
Aftermath of the Storm and Clean-Up

Preparation for the Storm

Communicate your plans to your household and solicit cooperation in maintaining the supplies. (Tell Junior it is not permissible to deplete the candy and granola bars.)

Have gas, cash and ice on hand, since they are often in short supply after a storm.

Charge your cell phone and any extra batteries.

Assemble your survival kit and update it before the big storm. The kit should include.
Ÿ Two weeks supply of prescription medicines
Ÿ Two weeks supply of non-perishable food. (remember special dietary needs)
Ÿ Manual can opener
Ÿ Drinking water (one gallon per person per day)
Ÿ Water for hygiene purposes (another gallon per person, fill up the bathtub and other containers)
Ÿ Flashlights and batteries for each person
Ÿ Portable radio and supply of batteries
Ÿ First aid book and kit
Ÿ Zipper seal bags and trash bags
Ÿ Paper products for eating and disposable utensils
Ÿ Premoistened towelettes, toilet paper and paper towels or absorbent rags
Ÿ Disinfectant and/or disinfectant wipes
Ÿ Chlorine bleach or water purification tablets
Ÿ Mosquito repellent and citronella candles
Ÿ Clothing and blankets (from evacuation kit)
Ÿ Documents (from evacuation kit)
Ÿ Tarps, hammer and nails
Ÿ Games and books to entertain children
Ÿ Special needs items for infants, children and elderly
Ÿ Pencil and paper in a protective plastic bag
Ÿ Multipurpose tool or tool kit

We suggest separating the supplies into three containers: medical and immediate need supplies, food supplies and non-food supplies. This can be accomplished by placing in large plastic bags or trash bags inside a larger container or using separate waterproof containers for each category. If using a single large container, remember to pack the heavier items and canned foods on the bottom. Medical supplies and the flashlights, radio and batteries should be easily accessible.

Remove any items on your property that might become flying hazards in high winds and board up expansions of glass.

Assemble a clean-up kit including:
Ÿ Mop and pails
Ÿ Broom
Ÿ Rake
Ÿ Shovel
Ÿ Cleaning disinfectant
Ÿ Tool kit
Ÿ Towels or absorbent rags

We suggest grouping these supplies together prior to the storm, so that they are easily accessible after the storm dissipates.

Enduring the Storm

While the storm rages, you and your family should find shelter in an interior room and have blankets handy to shelter yourselves from any flying debris. You might also want to have cycling helmets to protect your head if that becomes necessary. Make sure to carry your cell phone, flashlights and radio with you along with a change of batteries, some water and a little food. Take you prescription drugs and first aid kit. It is also a good idea to have a few items to entertain children and distract adults. You can access more extensive supplies when the storm has passed.

Aftermath and Clean-Up

When the storm is over and you survey the situation, remember to proceed in a systematic way to assess the damage and prepare to manage it.

Assess the physical condition of the people in your household. Are they unhurt, physically well, hydrated and nourished? Have they taken schedule medication? Do they need dry clothing or a diaper change?

Assess the interior of the house. Is there leaving, interior flooding, broken window panes? Is the electricity on and the telephone working? Note any hazards (broken glass for example) and remove them if possible. List any damage using your stored pencil and paper.

Assess the exterior of the house. Do not go outside until a reliable source says it is sage. Remove hazards, if it is possible to do so. List damages as your discover them.

Use your stored products to clean up and stay dray and comfortable until this return to pre-storm conditions.

A little preparation and organization can give you peace of mind during this hurricane season and help you endure a weather emergency should one occur.

Beverly and Kristen
www.KeyTransitions.net