It's good to be prepared just in case of emergencies. When Hurricane Ike struck a few years ago, I wasn't exactly prepared, it was crazy! I don't think anyone expected that much damage. So now I want to be prepared in case anything similar happens again so here's my little list below, but this is just what I would personally do or have in stock in case a hurricane would strike :-)
- Create a plan for you and your family in case you have to evacuate
- Look up locations of the nearest shelters for evacuation
- Get a map of your area, if the power's out there wont be any mapquest or google maps to help you find your way around town especially if you need to take a detour because a tree down and is blocking the road
- Any outdoor equipment or furniture like grills and patio chairs should be brought inside
- Prepare to bar windows and doors from the strong winds with some plywood
- Have some extra plywood laying around just in case you need to make any quick repairs after the hurricane, like a leaking ceiling/roof
- Stock up on some food to last a week- canned goods that can be stored for longer periods of time are good to have around
- Have a good supply of water that will last for a few weeks just in case
- Ice and an Ice Chest
- Get some flashlights, lamps, and batteries
- A battery powered radio to listen to the news!
- Fully charge your cellphones before the hurricane
- A generator would be very useuful if you can afford to buy one
- Some prescription medications - have a good supply if you are on prescription medications because who knows when the pharmacies will be open again
- For people who wear contacts, don't forget your contact lens solution, or you can just wear your glasses
- Take good care of your pets too! Take them with you if you evacuate!
- Rain gear - rain boots, umbrellas, rain coats, etc...
- It's also good to have an extra first aid kit because you never know what may happen!
- And have some CA$H - those ATM machines or card scanners may be out of service!
Also here's a link with more tips: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/08/25/hurricane-preparedness-irene_n_936264.html#s339290&title=Water_is_a
You can also go to www. ready. gov it has more helpful information and tips that will help you get ready for a hurricane, so check the site out!
I hope this helps, good luck to all!