Captain Tropic's
Hurricane Kit
Everyone is talking about hurricane kits, so here is my stab at it. Assemble this now before things get out of hand, when a storm is on the way is really a poor time to run out and get all of this stuff. Look around and find a nice container, water proof is very nice, maybe some sort of rubber maid product? Keep heat sensitive items inside your home and rotate perishable stock throughout the season. Batteries can go in the refrigerator for longer life although this isn't totally necessary. Remember get these items now, when a storm threatens, lines will be long and supplies short.
Equipment
Flashlights - Buy one for everyone in the home and make sure there of good quality.
Battery powered radio - Am/Fm radio a must. Weather radio is good. Police scanner may come in use after the storm to help keep tabs on looting.
Rechargeable battery-operated lanterns - Candles and kerosene lanterns are fire hazards. You can use them but don't fall asleep or leave them unattended!
Clock - Wind-up or battery-operated
Work Clothing - A clean change of clothes for everyone store in water tight plastic bags.
Rain gear - Find in surplus stores
Sturdy swamp boots - Flooding should be expected.
Sturdy working gloves - You'll need these for the clean up after the storm
TV antenna - An inexpensive model, to use when cable goes out.
Working fire extinguishers - You should have one or two in your home at all times not just when a hurricane is expected. Inspect seal check charge gage. Should be a class ABC!
Consumables Supplies
Extra batteries - Flashlight, lantern, radios, clock.
Extra bulbs - Make sure they fit the flashlights you buy
Toilet paper - I cover everything!
Matches - Good ones, Ohio blue tip, lighters, their cheap get a bunch.
Plastic garbage bags - Get quality for storage, get cheap for trash, double bag garbage, get a bunch.
Documentation
Map of the area - Up to date and use to plan escape avoid rivers and streams.
List of phone numbers - Make this ahead of time and test the numbers.
Homeowners insurance policy - Talk to your agent about your coverage and keep a copy of your policy in a safe place and keep one with you in a zip lock bag.
Life insurance policy- keep a copy of your policy in a safe place and keep one with you in a zip lock bag.
Car insurance policy- keep a copy of your policy in a safe place and keep one with you in a zip lock bag.
Proof of Residence - Your drivers license should have your correct address if not the police may not let you back into the area.
Hardware
Hand tools - Hammer, screwdrivers to use now, shovel and pickax for after the storm
Scissors - What you have may be ok.
Screw gun - You know how I love these things
Plywood - 4 x 8 foot sheets of plywood 5/8 inch to 1/2 inch thick to put over windows. Ask for exterior plywood - you should have this way ahead of time
1/4 machine screw sockets and screws or other hardware - To mount plywood over all windows and opening in your home.
Plastic sheeting to cover furniture - Also good for holes in your roof Rope - You'll need it for something
Duct tape - To waterproof items. Masking tape isn't strong enough and melts when wet. Don't bother putting tape on your windows, that's such a joke.
Canvas tarps - Good for holes in your roof.
Nails - There are many kinds, so look over your home now and determine what you will need. Roofing nails - For holding down plastic sheeting and tarp.
Common nails - for temporary repairs.
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Thanks, Captain Tropic
