Four Must-Haves for Every Florida Hurricane Season

Last hurricane season there were several devastating storms. In September 2019, Hurricane Dorian hit the Bahamas causing such destruction that we are still trying to wrap our heads around it. With another Florida hurricane season to look forward to, you need to prepare yourself and your family. As the saying goes, “It is better to be safe than sorry.”

A Grab Bag

Grab bags or kits are essential. Even if your home is ready and it has a full stock of all the essentials, you never know when you might need to leave in a hurry. You may have to avoid the storm if it becomes too dangerous, or maybe during the storm, your safety structure could collapse. Everyone has a different idea of what should go in a grab bag, but here are some suggestions:

• Documentation – Make sure you have your identification, passport, and any other essential paperwork you could need. Ensure they are watertight by placing them in a Ziplock bag or a similar waterproof carrying case. 

 

• Essentials – You will need water for three days, a radio, and a flashlight that does not require batteries to operate.  A power bank to charge your phone in case the power goes out and a first aid kit are both cautious ideas.

 

• Money – Carry some cash in hand, as it’s better to have it and not need it than the reverse.

 

• Clothes – Pack a couple of changes of clothes. It is advisable to put these in a Ziplock bag as well to keep them dry.

 

• Medication – Include any medicines you need in your grab bag.

 

• Miscellaneous – Add anything else you can think of that you will need, but also try to keep it light and easy to carry.

Supplies

You need water for at least three days, though a week’s worth is more prudent. Calculate about a gallon per person per day.  Stock up on canned food to last at least a week, and strive toward variety here, not just sardines, but vegetables, beans, and other groceries. The power could go out for weeks at a time, but a week of food should be adequate. Make sure you refill prescriptions and have any medications you might need. Some of the same items within the grab bag should be readily available to you as well, including a flashlight, radio, toolkit, first aid kit, and more. A grill is also a useful tool, as well as fuel, mosquito repellent, duct tape, rope, a saw or knife, and rain gear.

Baby and Pet Supplies

If you have a baby, you will need to stock up on everything your little one will need, such as formula, diapers, and wipes.  Likewise, if you have a pet you should keep enough water and food to last them at least a week. 

A Protected Home

You must protect your home against possible storms. Use the best hurricane windows and make sure they are impact windows and doors. If you want to guarantee your windows and doors are safe, contact ASP Windows. We will gladly provide an evaluation of your preexisting protection, and we will provide an in-home estimate of any impact windows, doors, or specialty glass your home might need. Want to be worry-free when a storm is coming? We have your back. Call us at 786-870-4735 to prepare for Florida hurricane season now.