Regardless of whether you plan to evacuate in the event of a storm or not, it’s always a good idea to have a supply kit that is easily assembled. This is especially critical if you think you will “hunker down” as they say, based on your evacuation zone. In the aftermath of a storm many services we take for granted will be hampered, i.e. gas stations, ATMS, retail operations, etc.
Assemble Disaster Supplies: This includes food & water, medications, batteries/chargers, gassing up (the car) and cash on hand
Recommendations from the JEOC (Jacksonville Emergency Operations Center)
A Disaster Supplies Kit should include:
___ A supply of water (one gallon per person per day)
___ A supply of non-perishable packaged or canned food
___ Special dietary food if needed
___ Utensils such as a manual can opener, disposable plates, cups, utensils, etc.
___ A change of clothing, rain gear and sturdy shoes
___ Personal hygiene items such as soap, deodorant, shampoo, toothbrush & paste, aspirin, etc.
___ Blankets or sleeping bags
___ A first aid kit and prescription medicines
___ An extra pair of glasses
___ A battery-powered radio, flashlight and plenty of extra batteries
___ Credit cards and cash
___ An extra set of car keys
___ A list of family physicians
___ A list of important family information
___ Special items for infants, elderly or disabled family members
___ Books, magazines, cards, toys and games
Doing this now will ease a great deal of anxiety when a storm is imminent. The planning is one of the only elements we have control over during hurricane season!