What Are the Five Important Things You Need in a Hurricane Safety Kit?

Creating a hurricane safety kit, also known as a disaster supply kit, can keep your family safe if a hurricane forces you to stay in your home for several days. Although people living in coastal areas and manufactured houses may need to evacuate during hurricanes, most people can safely stay in their home during a hurricane. Prepare your hurricane safety kit ahead of time to beat the crowds that fill stores after hurricane warnings and watches.

Food and Water

• Store at least a three-day supply of food and water for each person in your household, according to the National Hurricane Survival Initiative. Allow a gallon of water per person per day. Store plenty of canned fruits, vegetables, juices and meats. In addition, include staples such as flour and sugar as well as non-perishable snack foods.

Clothing and Bedding

• Pack a complete change of clothing for each person, and include sunglasses, hats, gloves and rain gear. Include several blankets or sleeping bags.

Sanitation and First Aid

• Keep toilet paper, soap, bleach, disinfectant and feminine hygiene supplies in your disaster safety kit. In addition, pack adhesive bandages, gauze, hand sanitizer, non-latex gloves, cold packs, tweezers, anti-bacterial ointment, pain relievers, laxatives and antacids. Pack prescription drugs, denture supplies and contact lenses, if necessary.

Tools

• Include a flashlight, extra batteries, paper plates, plastic utensils, matches, tape, foil, paper and pencil, needles and thread, medicine dropper and whistle. In addition, pack a battery-operated radio, signal flare, local map and non-electric can opener.

Documents

• Store copies of passports, insurance policies, bank account numbers and credit card numbers in a waterproof container. In addition, store some cash, in small bills, since ATMs may not work during or after a hurricane.