President Obama speaks at FEMA on October 5. (Getty)
Hurricane Matthew is expected to make landfall in Florida, where Governor Rick Scott has already called for evacuations. Georgia and South Carolina are also bracing for the storm and evacuations have been ordered in both states. Government officials have stressed to take the storm seriously and anyone not leaving their home will have to prepare. Here is what you need during a hurricane if you home.
The Red Cross advises that you need at least a three-day supply of water and food, including one gallon of water per person per day. The food should be non-perishable and easy-to-prepare food.
Other items you need, according to the Red Cross, are below. The Department of Homeland Security has a similar list as well.
- flashlight
- battery-powered radio, hand-crank radio or a NOAA Weather Radio
- first-aid kit
- seven-day supply of medications and medical items (like hearing airs, glasses, syringes, cane, etc.)
- a multi-purpose tool and other tools to secure your home
- extra cash, clothing, set of keys, hat and sturdy shoes
- cell phone & chargers
- baby supplies
- emergency blanket
- rain gear
- insect repellent
- sunscreen
- a map of you area
- family and emergency contact information
- camera to take photos of damage
- baby supplies (bottles, formula, baby food and diapers)
- pet supplies (collar, leash, ID, food, carrier and bowl)
The Department of Homeland Security also provides a list of ways to prepare your home for a storm. The government suggests that you get rid of or trim branches and trees near your home that could fall over. It’s a good idea to secure and reinforce doors, windows and your roof to reduce damage. The department also suggests securing loose rain gutters and downspouts, as well as clearing clogged areas to prevent water damage.
Another necessary item is a portable generator to use during power outages.
“Remember to keep generators and other alternate power/heat sources outside, at least 20 feet away from windows and doors and protected from moisture; and NEVER try to power the house wiring by plugging a generator into a wall outlet,” the Department of Homeland Security notes.
Hurricane Preparedness Week is in May, to prepare those in hurricane hit areas for the season. On the last day of that week, NOAA suggests that you make a written hurricane plan.
“The time to prepare for a hurricane is before the season begins, when you have the time and are not under pressure. If you wait until a hurricane is on your doorstep, the odds are that you will be under duress and will make the wrong decisions,” the NOAA notes.
