Video:Make A Hurricane Kit

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Transcript:Make A Hurricane Kit

Hi, I'm Chris Chmura for About.com Home and Garden. Anyone who lives anywhere near the coast needs to be prepared for a hurricane. And, even if your home is outside an evacuation zone, a survival kit is essential.

Really, there are three basic categories for a hurricane kit:

• keeping healthy
• keeping safe
• staying informed

Store a Hurricane Kit Water Supply

First, stock at least one gallon of water per person per day for at least three days, you'll need it for both drinking and sanitation. A great idea just before the storm arrives is to clean and then fill a bathtub with water.

Store a Hurricane Kit Food Supply

Next, food. The power will probably go out, so forget cooking. Save at least a three-day supply of non-perishable meals.

That will most likely mean canned goods. So remember to grab a MANUAL can opener. Pet food falls into the same category--- a 72 hours of feed for fido.

Don't forget disposable utensils and moist towelettes too. Plus, garbage bags, and plastic ties for personal sanitation

Store Hurricane Kit Medical Supplies

Finally for this category, your medicine. Keep prescriptions and other over-the-counter medication close by, and, again, be sure you have enough to last at least three days.

Store Flashlights and Lighting

It's bound to go dark as the winds pick up-- and the electric may stay off long after the weather clears. So, you'll need at least one flashlight and plenty of extra batteries. Add a first aid kit to your hurricane kit because it's unlikely medical help will be available during the storm.

Keep Bleach Handy

A small amount of bleach may also be handy. In emergencies, it can be used to treat water. 16 small drops of bleach per gallon of water. But NOT the scented stuff, color safe, or other bleaches that have cleaners in them. Just -plain- bleach.

Prepare for a Quick Exit

In the event you do have to leave at the last second, keep the car full of fuel, gather your important papers-- especially insurance documents, and carry cash-- because as soon as the power goes out, credit card machines are useless. Have some maps handy, and be sure to come up with a Plan B so you know exactly where you can quickly and safely take shelter.

Stay Informed

Tropical storms and hurricanes have a predictable record of being unpredictable. So, you'll want to check with the local news media for storm updates and, eventually, the all-clear. Battery powered TVs, stereos, and weather alert radios are ideal for staying tuned. ...just be sure your supply of batteries can keep up with your hunger for information.

Keep Occupied

Confronting a storm is an exhausting experience. You'll have many anxious hours to fill, and it's no fun. Books, puzzles, and games are great for helping pass such a stressful time. They won't slow the winds, but they could calm your nerves.

Thanks for watching. You'll find more tips at homegarden.about.com.