How to Create an Affordable Hurricane Preparedness Kit

Tropical Storm Beryl dumped drenching rains on the southeast. Rough waters created by the storm killed one teen in violent surf near Daytona Beach, Florida, all days before the official June 1 start to hurricane season. Hurricanes are scary, but having a plan can reduce their impact. National Hurricane Preparedness Week is happening right now which makes this a great time to create your own hurricane preparedness kit. For less than $100 you can buy yourself improved peace of mind with a fully stocked disaster supply kit.

Water
Perhaps one of the most important things in your kit, water is a must for surviving a major storm. The government suggests stocking up on one gallon of water per person per day for three days.

Hand Crank Radio
Stay connected and informed when the power goes out with the Midland EP102 Emergency Crank Radio. The crank can be used to charge a radio and flashlight when a hurricane knocks out power. Plus, it also has a USB port so you can charge cell phones and other gadgets.

First Aid Kit
A first-aid kit is another great addition to your hurricane preparedness kit. At REI.com, a 53-piece first-aid kit is just $15 and includes bandages, gauze pads, gloves, tweezers, antiseptic towelettes and more.

Whistle
Experts also advise having a storm whistle in your kit. The Storm whistle blows at 125 decibels, one of the loudest mouth-blow whistles available. Pick one up for about $5 at Amazon.com.

Plastic Sheeting and Duct Tape
Hurricanes can do major damage, but for temporary repairs you’ll need a quick fix to keep your home protected from the elements. Having plastic sheeting and duct tape on hand will help you to cover any holes or cracks left behind by a storm. Pick these supplies up at a local hardware store.

Non-Perishable Food
When a hurricane hits restaurants and grocery stores shut down making food hard to come by. Keep at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food on hand in your kit. This can be canned goods, or ready-to-cook food like those found at efoodsdirect.com. A 7-Day Pantry Pack is half off right now with code “Food50.” You can also score six free meals when you pay just $9.95 in shipping and handling.

Can Opener
A basic can opener is another important item to have at the ready. If your can opener is electric there’s a good chance you won’t be able to use it after a hurricane hits. And nothing would be more frustrating in an emergency situation than having canned food waiting to be eaten, but no way to open it.

By Alison Storm

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