It’s Hurricane Season, Be Prepared
Last year was a quiet after the devastation of Hurricanes Irene in 2011 and Sandy in 2012. Hurricane
season 2014 has begun; hopefully we are not lulled into a sense of security. As we well know hurricanes
can cause storm surges, heavy rainfall, inland flooding, high winds and rip currents. Are you ready to
evacuate or shelter in place for days without power or access to food and water? The Federal
Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) gives us three steps to get prepared.
Step 1: Put together a kit of emergency supplies. You may want to make one kit to shelter in place and
another “Grab and Go” kit to use in an evacuation. The kit should include a three day supply of the
following in a clean garbage can or backpack:
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Water, one gallon per person
per day
 Non-perishable food and a can
opener
 Medications, at least a 7 day
supply of prescriptions
 Radio, hand crank or battery
powered and extra batteries
 Flashlight and batteries
Step 2: Make a Plan for Emergency
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First aid kit, fire extinguisher
Whistle to call for help
Dust mask, plastic sheeting,
duct tape
Garbage bags
Personal care items
Wrench to turn off utilities
Supplies for Pets
Who can help in an emergency, know your neighbors
Identify an out of town contact for family members to check in
What are the options for an evacuation route?
Where will family members meet?
Keep your important documents in one place to easily take with you.
Step 3: Be Informed
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Know what kind of emergencies may affect your area.
How will you keep informed? Radio station, TV
For a more complete list of ways to prepare for a hurricane or other natural disaster go to
www.ready.gov or call Visiting Nurses of the Lower Valley at 860-767-0186 for a helpful guide.