With Hurricane Season at Hand, Preparedness is Important

Hurricane season starts officially on June 1, and severe weather can create havoc in a community.

Tropical storms and hurricanes can leave communities in dangerous predicaments even after the winds have calmed. Power outages, service interruptions and slowed emergency response times are more than just inconvenient; they can present real risks.

That's why Ready.ga.gov recommends keeping an emergency preparedness kit on hand. A few simple, easily obtainable items can make all the difference in the aftermath of a severe storm. Here's what Ready.ga.gov recommends:

• Water: a three-day supply, one gallon per day per person.
• Food: Nonperishable, a three-day supply.
• Can opener
• Radio: Battery-powered or, better yet, a hand-cranked emergency radio. Also consider purchasing a NOAA weather radio.
• Flashlight
• Extra batteries
• First aid kit
• Whistle
• Face mask: to help filter dust and debris.
• Moist towelettes
• Garbage bags
• Plastic ties
• Local maps

The website also recommends that families consider what is unique to their situation and adjust their kits accordingly. Do you have pets? A baby still on formula? Anyone in the family taking medication? Make sure to plan for that and add the necessary items to your kit.

Visit Ready.ga.gov for more tips on readiness kits, making emergency preparedness plans and more.

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