Are You Prepared for Storm Season?
Some major natural disasters have taught Americans to be prepared to live without utilities and basic services for two weeks or more. In addition to the three-day supply kit, which includes the usual non-perishable items, first-aid kit, bedding materials, and flashlights, these supplies will be good to have if you find yourself going even longer without the normal everyday items.
For Pets
- Pet first-aid kit and guide book (ask your vet what to include, or visit the ASPCA Store to buy one online)
- 3-7 days’ worth of canned (pop-top) or dry food (be sure to rotate every two months)
- Disposable litter trays (aluminum roasting pans are perfect)
- Litter or paper toweling
- Disposable garbage bags for clean-up
- Pet feeding dishes
- Extra collar or harness as well as an extra leash
- Bottled water, at least 7 days’ worth for each person and pet (store in a cool, dry place and replace every two months)
- A traveling bag, crate or sturdy carrier, ideally one for each pet
- Blanket (for scooping up a fearful pet)
- Recent photos of your pets (in case you are separated and need to make “Lost” posters)
Sanitary Items
- Large, plastic trash bags for waste and to use as tarps and rain ponchos
- Large trash cans
- Towelettes
- Bar soap and liquid detergent
- Shampoo
- Toothpaste and toothbrushes
- Feminine hygiene supplies
- Toilet paper
- Household bleach for cleaning
- Rubber gloves
Prepare your paperwork
Start with a portable, waterproof (airtight) bag that’s brightly colored, so you can quickly find it in the dark. Diving equipment shops stock the ideal bag, but gallon-sized or larger zip-lock bags will do in a pinch.
Print this checklist and keep it inside your waterproof bag to help you collect the items listed below:
- Driver’s license, photo ID
- Emergency contact list or address book (even if contacts are stored in a smartphone)
- Insurance policies (health, home, auto)
- Vital documents (birth certificates, passports, wills)
- Bank account information (account numbers, passwords)
- Photocopies of credit and debit cards (front and back)
- Stock certificates, investment information
- Extra keys (home, safe deposit box, office and car)