Storm Checklist

Inside the Home

• Stock up on nonperishable food, medicine, baby supplies, and pet food.
• Purchase bottled water. The American Red Cross recommends one gallon of water per person per day.
• Check emergency equipment, such as flashlights, battery-operated radios, extension cords, emergency generators, etc., and buy extra batteries.
• Keep extra cash on hand, since an electrical power outage may prevent you from withdrawing money from automatic teller machines or banks.
• Turn your refrigerator to its coldest setting. If the power goes out, this will keep food fresh longer. If you leave the refrigerator closed, most food will stay frozen or fresh for up to 12 hours.
• Turn off and unplug any unnecessary electrical equipment--especially sensitive electronics.
• Keep first aid kit and manual handy.
• Have nonelectric can opener on hand.
• Place your critical documents, such as birth certificates, insurance documents, special pictures, etc. in a safe box.

Outside the Home

• Install an approved hurricane shutter system over windows and doors--or have on hand alternate coverings such as plywood.
• When venturing outside, be on the lookout for downed power lines and stay away from them.
• Trim trees that are NOT near power lines and clear debris. Once a hurricane warning is announced, trash pickup is suspended.
• Fill your vehicle’s gas tank.
• Bring loose, lightweight objects, such as lawn furniture, inside.
• If you plan to lower your TV antenna, do it well before storm winds arrive. Look around to identify power lines and stay clear.
• If you have a swimming pool, turn off all pumps and filters and wrap them in waterproof materials. Water from the storm may otherwise damage them.
• Where possible, insulate or cover water lines, hose bibs, etc. when confronted with severe cold weather.