When a Hurricane Strikes, Will You Be Ready?

This year, weather forecasters are predicting a more active hurricane season, and an “above average” chance of at least one major storm making landfall on Long Island. Will you be ready? Use this check list to help stock up on essentials to keep your home and family safe.

Recommended supplies to include in a basic kit:

• Bottled water – 3-5 day supply (1-3 gallons per person per day)
• Nonperishable food (3-5 day supply, replace every six months)
• Battery-powered radio or television and extra batteries
• First aid kit
• Whistle to signal for help Moist towelettes or baby wipes
• Toiletries and personal hygiene products
• Manual can opener
• Plastic sheeting and duct tape for shelter
• Unique family needs, such as daily prescription medications, infant formula, diapers and important family documents, such as insurance policies
• Wooden kitchen matches in a plastic container

OTHER GENERAL ITEMS:

• Camera and film to record damage
• Cash (ATMs may not work)
• Charcoal for grill, lighter fluid or full tank of propane for gas grills (for outdoor use only)
• Extra cell phone battery (charged)
• Garbage bags
• Lantern/flashlight
• Sturdy rubber boots for floods
• Fire extinguisher
• Special items for the elderly
• Toilet tissue and paper towels
• Work gloves

BABIES AND CHILDREN:

• Baby formula and nonperishable foods
• Toys (non-battery)
• Diapers and diaper rash cream
• Medications

DOCUMENTS:

• All documents should be stored in waterproof and portable containers
• Emergency contact information
• Copies of homeowners, auto and life insurance policies
• Inventory list of property
• Photo ID and proof of residence
• Bank and credit card information 
• Social Security cards, wills, deeds, birth and marriage certificates

DON’T FORGET YOUR PETS!

• Pet carrier/cage with toy
• Food and water
• Leash/harness with ID tag

TIPS:

• If you must evacuate, the best way to prevent your pet from being lost or injured is to evacuate them too
•  Call ahead to find hotels and motels that accept pets
• Find a friend or relative who can shelter your pet
• Prepare a list of boarding facilities, veterinarians or animal shelters that provide emergency shelter

You can find a list of emergency numbers and websites attached to keep near your phone so you will be ready when the storm hits!

Visit Suffolk County’s Fire Rescue and Emergency Services website at www.suffolkcountyny.gov to learn more about ways to keep your family safe this hurricane season.