It’s Hurricane Season: Be Ready for the Next Big One

As everybody on the Eastern Seaboard learned last week during Hurricane Irene, it is best to be prepared. Whether the weather passed you by this time, or you were hit with the full-force of Mother Nature, it is time to get your emergency equipment together for the next one. J&R’s Emergency Preperation store is a great place to start.

There are certain items you should have:

- Portable Battery Operated Radios
- Emergency Crank Radios
- Batteries and Power Supplies
- Flashlights
- Personal TVs

Everyone has a personal responsibility to be prepared. Creating an emergency plan ahead of time for you and your family will help you stay organized if a hurricane strikes. Your emergency plan should include a communication system, disaster supply kit, and alternate meeting places if your home is unsafe. Depending on the severity of the hurricane, you may need to evacuate where you live. When instructions are given to evacuate, you will be directed to a temporary, emergency refuge that will provide a safe haven for the duration of the storm. However, it is recommended that you seek refuge with a friend or family member located away from the affected area. You’ll be more comfortable on a friend’s couch than on a cot in a shelter.

Emergency Go-Kits
What you have on hand when a hurricane hits can make a big difference to how well your family handles it. In the event of a hurricane WATCH or WARNING, put these items into a smaller, portable Go-Kit – such as a hands-free backpack or duffel bag – or a container, in case you need to evacuate. Keep it by your front door or an exit in case of an emergency evacuation. Each person should have a Go-Kit. Create your own disaster preparedness kits – one for home and one to go as a “Go Bag” in case you need to evacuate – with enough supplies for everyone in your household for FIVE (5) days.

Personal Go-Kit
Your family disaster preparedness kits should include:
• First aid kit. Pack a “how to” guide as well.
• Medications: Essential prescription, nonprescription items & medical information.
• Battery-powered flashlight and radio (or crank radio),
extra batteries and a 12-hour glow stick.
• Clothing: A change of clothes, plus rainwear, sturdy shoes and protective gloves for everyone.
• Personal items: Eye glasses, personal care items, & comfort items.
• Important document copies in a waterproof container:
• Drivers’ licenses
• Wills
• Birth and marriage certificates
• Insurance policies
• Proof of residence (deed or lease)
• Recent tax returns
• Credit card & bank account numbers
• Social Security cards
• Passport numbers
• Home inventory list
• Items for infants, elderly, pets or loved ones with special need

Pet Go-Kit
Your pet disaster preparedness kits should include:
• Your pets’ names
• Your name, address, phone and cell number
• Emergency contact – friend or family
• Your veterinarian’s name and contact information
• Medical records and medications
• Specific care instructions and behavioral problems
• First aid kit
• Current photos
• Sturdy leash with collar or harness
• Muzzles, if necessary
• Paper towels for clean-up
• Food (3 days supply) & manual can opener
• Bottled water and water purification tablets
• Bowls, toys and other comfort items
• Treats, brushes, combs
• Newspapers and plastic trash bags for handling waste
Also have on hand, ready to go:
• Secure carriers large enough for your pets to stand
comfortably, turn around and lie down
• Towels or blankets for bedding and warmth
• Cat litter and litter box

Being prepared is the best way to comfortably survive adverse situations. Whether it’s Irene or some other emergency, make sure you’re ready.

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