How to make a hurricane prep kit

Prep kits aren’t just for the overly cautious. They’re for everyone who wants a little personal assurance during severe weather.

June 25, 2013; 4:24 PM • by RVANews staff

You don’t need to be a Doomsday Prepper to be safe during a disaster. Creating an emergency preparedness kit is easy, and helps you make it through a bad storm.

Below are items that you should consider adding to your kit. You can also save yourself the trouble and buy one from the American Red Cross.

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Prep kit essentials

Food: At least 3 days worth of food that doesn’t require electricity to store. Make sure you include a can opener for canned food, along with utensils.
Water: You should have at least 3 gallons of water per person. These are for both drinking and sanitation.
Radio: You should keep a battery-powered or hand-crank radio with you to monitor weather conditions if the power goes out. Keep extra batteries on hand.
Emergency Plan: It’s good to have a written plan with important contacts, addresses, and medications. Keep in mind that your phone won’t do you any good if its battery runs out and there’s no electricity to charge it. Having important information written down may come in handy.

Other Important Items

Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities
Flashlight and extra batteries
First aid kit
Prescription medication and eyewear
Dust mask
Sanitation supplies: moist towelettes, toilet paper, soap, and garbage bags.

Extra items to consider

Items for infants and toddlers
Books, games, puzzles, and other activities for children
Pet supplies
Local maps
Documents like insurance policies, family documents (store in waterproof container)
Sleeping bag or blanket for each person
Extra clothing
Paper towels, napkins, and plastic utensils

Photo by: Dois Espressos