On September 28, 2022, the Washington Post reported that Hurricane Ian has rapidly intensified into a category 4 hurricane. 155 mph winds are set to hit land, most likely near Port Charlotte, Florida.
Instead of dwelling on the fear that comes with these scary weather predictions, it's most important to make sure you and your loved ones are prepared with a well-stocked hurricane kit, even if you're not immediately in the path of any bad weather at the moment.
You might think you're already set with your own hurricane kit, but you would be surprised by which less-obvious items listed below can help keep you safe through the storm.
Take a look and be sure to SHARE the things everyone needs in their home before a hurricane hits.
Hurricane Prep Kit
Most of us know the basics, such as plenty of water, canned food, and a battery-powered radio (plus plenty of spare batteries), but there are some more obscure items that can make a huge difference while dealing with the stormy weather.
1. Fishing Line
No, not to catch dinner from your flooded living room like the viral video of a dad making the most of his family's soggy situation with Hurricane Harvey.
Instead, the super-strong fiber is waterproof and can be used to secure things from being blown away by the wind.
2. Vinyl Tablecloths
They're cheaper than tarps but just as durable and capable of creating a dry, clean space or protecting your household items.
3. Baby Wipes
Hurricanes can be a "water, water everywhere but not a drop to bathe" situation.
Investing in baby wipes or other disposable disinfectant material can help you clean up yourself and your surroundings when the grime starts to build up.
4. Landline Phone
This might seem obvious to some folks, but our modern reliance on mobile phones can leave us without a way to contact our loved ones (or emergency crews) when power goes out.
Be sure your landline is also not a hands-free model that requires electrical charging.
5. Extra Cash
Chances are always high that technological payment processes and use of ATMs can become impossible with power outages and flood damage, so keep a stash of cash in a dry place.
6. Whistle
The same whistle our old gym coaches used to get us in gear can be used to alert emergency personnel or others of your location if you find yourself stuck in a dangerous position and in need of assistance.
7. Maps
You might think you know your town frontwards and backwards, but when stress and emotions rise high with flood waters, you might find yourself drawing a blank. Having these handy (especially with your evacuation route marked) can keep you and your loved ones from getting lost in the chaos.
Do you have all of these items in your hurricane kit?
Be sure to SHARE the surprisingly helpful essentials with your friends on Facebook!
