Hurricane season is on us. How prepared are you with supplies if there was a hurricane tomorrow? Based on the numerous empty shelves at the grocery store over the past few months, it’s evident that many people have stocked up on food, toiletries and cleaning supplies, so they’re prepared for local shelter in place orders due to the COVID-19 Coronavirus. The good news is that you likely have supplies for ten days as recommended by hurricane preparedness experts. In addition to the basics, you should also make sure you have an adequate supply of medication, pet food and cash to pay for additional supplies, even if the power goes out during a storm.

Below is a list of basic emergency supplies as recommended by ready.gov/kit

• Water (one gallon per person per day for at least three days, for drinking and sanitation)
• Food (at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food)
• Battery-powered or hand crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert
• Flashlight and radio with extra batteries
• First aid kit
• Whistle (to signal for help)
• Face mask (to help filter contaminated air and help against the spread of viruses)
• Plastic sheeting and duct tape (to shelter in place)
• Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties (for personal sanitation)
• Wrench or pliers (to turn off utilities)
• Manual can opener (for food)
• Local maps
• Cell phone with chargers and a backup battery
• Soap, hand sanitizer, disinfecting wipes to disinfect surfaces, two masks per person
• Games and toys to keep children entertained

Store these supplies in a duffel bag or bin that you can quickly grab if you need to evacuate. If the storm is close, you might move the kit to your car so you’re ready to go in a moment’s notice. If you need to shelter in place, be sure that your emergency supplies are easily accessible.