Hurricane season is something that my family faces every year. Around June 1st, I start stocking up on hurricane essentials: water, batteries, candles, etcetera. Given Zoe’s specific medical needs, we take care to ensure that we can meet her needs in the event of a crisis. If you live in an area that is prone to weather-related issues like loss of electricity, or if you just live in an area that requires you to stay indoors for long periods of time, it’s important that you try to have well-stocked reserves. Here are a few things to consider stocking before nasty weather approaches:
Non-perishable food items: canned foods, dry foods, aseptic containers of milk and juice, water—at least to last you several days. My husband and I were once housebound for 3 days during a blizzard (we were living in New York at the time)—we had a few things to get by on, but after three days we were hungry and cranky.
First-aid kit: accidents happen, so it’s best to be ready. Bandages, antiseptic, gauze, and pain relievers are but some of the things you may want to have ready. Check the expiration dates on pain relievers in your kit.
Extra medication: just in case you can’t get to a pharmacy. My mother-in-law lives with us, and we make sure she keeps extra blood pressure and diabetes medication. You do not want to run out of your loved one’s medication.
Full tank of gas: after Hurricane Wilma, lots of people in our area were left stranded and unable to fill their gas tanks. Keep your gas tank full; if you need to leave town, you don’t want to be stuck at home.
Batteries and candles: batteries for flashlights and radios, candles for lighting. And watch out for the kiddies around candles!
Fun activities: things to keep you busy (and sane) while you’re waiting for power to come back on. Board games, playing cards, coloring books, and puzzles are lifesavers at my house.
Above all, stay safe. Listen to weather advisories. Formulate a readiness plan so you’re not caught off guard in the event of an emergency.