Hurricane season is in full swing. Hurricane Harvey was a major storm that hit Texas and Hurricane Irma is slated to hit Florida by the weekend. Although no storms have made its way up the east coast yet, the 2017 hurricane season is not over (it normally extends through the end of November). Waiting for an impending storm means long lines at the grocery store and limited availability of essential supplies. Take the time to stock up and prepare now! Below are some Massachusetts hurricane preparation tips to consider.
Food and Water Supplies
Water seems to be the highest in-demand item right before a major storm. There’s plenty available at the stores now, so stock up! Even if you don’t end up using it during hurricane season, you will eventually need it for snow storm season this winter. While you’re at it, purchase non-perishable foods (canned and dry goods). Focus on items that don’t need warming up (in case you lose power).
Hurricane Supply Checklist
In addition to food and water, you should have other supplies on hand. Here’s a list to get you started.
First Aid Kit
- Bandages
- Sanitizer/Ointment
- Gauze
- Tweezers
- Scissors
- Non-prescription Drugs (i.e. Tylenol, Aspirin, Benadryl)
Lighting Supplies
- Flashlights
- Batteries
- Candles
- Lighters
Other Supplies
- Manual Can Opener
- Portable Knife
- Sanitary Wipes
- Plastic Utensils
- Napkins
- Warm Clothes
- Warm Blankets
- Rubber Gloves
- Fire Extinguisher
Evacuation Kits for MA Residents
In case you need to quickly evacuate your home, it’s a good idea to have certain items packed ahead of time. This will shorten the time needed to get out of your home.
- Tooth Brush
- Tooth Paste
- Shampoo
- Soap
- Comb
- Toilet Paper
- Hand Wipes or Hand Sanitizer
- Rubber Gloves
- Trash Bags
- Rain Boots
- Rain Coat(s)
- Sweaters
- Blanket or Sleeping Bag
- Flashlight
- Cash
- Water bottles
- Waterproof bag with essential paperwork (i.e. ID, birth certificates, insurance company info., important contact numbers, etc.)
Prepare a checklist of last-minute items that should be added to your bag (to prevent you from forgetting something important). Here are some examples:
- Cell Phone
- House Keys
- Eye Glasses
- Children’s Special Items (i.e. Favorite blanket or doll)
- Complete outfits (including under garments and socks)
More Massachusetts Hurricane Preparation Tips
Once you have the above purchased and prepared, you can breathe easy just before a storm while everyone scrambles to find what they need. Now is also a good time to review your homeowners insurance policy. Understand what is covered and, more importantly, what is not covered should a hurricane reach the area. Should you consider adding flood insurance? Is there a period before which a flood policy would become active? Are there other MA homeowners insurance add-ons that you should consider? Having this conversation with your insurance company now will ensure that you are better protected in the future.