Hurricane Season

Living as close to the coast as I do, the beginning of hurricane season means that it is time to get my supply kit together again.  I unpack it at the end of the season (and I am positive that there is no threat) and use what was in it.

In the last few weeks there have been several natural disasters and a lot of talk on cnn about disaster clean up from the last year.  I do not want to be on the news - ever because I was unprepared.  I have always lived in this area and hurricanes are part of the life.  I missed Ike, but got hit during Rita.  Besides being prepared, I know that with my babies, without a doubt, I would evacuate.

We evacuated during Rita and I have no regrets.  I will do it again.  We know of a few places in Dallas and San Antonio that we could go.  Problem is, during Rita (as a city we all learned a lot during Rita) if you don't leave early enough there is a lot of traffic and hotels fill up quickly.  We know of a few other places to go that are either west or further north.  You have to have a back up plan.  We always have a plan B.  and a plan c,d,e,f,g..... for everything.  So, even though we plan to evacuate, you have to have a box of supplies ready to go in an instant.

At all times in my truck I keep:

• jumper cables
• first aid kits (always need to be kept re-supplied)
• toys (small tote, just in case)
• suit case with a spare full change of clothes for everyone (changes with each season)
• box with swim gear (swim suits, sunblock, towels, goggles, etc)
• Bottles of water
• Small box with car chargers for the game boy, kindle, cell phone, etc
• Picnic basket with plates, forks, spoons, cups
• Blankets

Obviously I drive a large suburban (with a cargo topper on top!)  Now that I need my hurricane kit as well, I will get a few totes and put the following supplies ready to grab in a hurry.  The key is to get the boxes ready, but not so heavy that I cannot pick them up by my self.

Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities  - in the drawer.  Also, the knowledge to turn everything off!  You may be surprised at the number of people (women's especially) who do not know this.

Water, 8+ gallons

Food, granola bars, microwaveable meals (stuff that doesn't need to be refrigerated), cans of ravioli, cans of fruit etc

Flashlight and extra batteries

Whistle to signal for help

Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties for personal sanitation

Manual can opener for food

Local maps - you cannot guarantee that the gps will work

Inverter or solar charger for my cell phone, it won't ever hold a charge for long.  I have my car charger, but you can never be over prepared.

Dog food and bowls

leashes

$100 in cash (or more) for gas, hotel, and more food

I dread having to evacuate, but I would hate to have to evacuate and not be ready.  If I never need this stuff, it gives us some junk food for the pantry for the winter :)