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EmergencyMatters.com carries a selection of emergency preparedness products, survival & outdoor gear, and food storage necessities. Our goal is to make sure you've got what you need to make it through any situation. From an afternoon hike to an earthquake, we've got what you need.




Hurricanes are severe tropical storms that form in oceans. Scientists can predict hurricanes, but people who live in coastal communities need to have a plan for what they will do in the event that they have to evacuate.

The National Weather Service (NWS) issues alerts to let you know what is going on in your area. They issue a Hurricane Watch when hurricane conditions are a threat within 48 hours. If a hurricane watch is issued, you should review your hurricane plans, stay informed and be ready to act if a warning is issued.

The NWS issues a Hurricane Warning when hurricane conditions are expected within 36 hours. Complete your preparations and evacuate the area if directed to do so by authorities.

Before the Hurricane

  • Make a hurricane plan for you and your family


  • Get an emergency kit. This will be helpful in the event that you must evacuate, but will also be a help if you stay and supplies are cut off for any period of time.

    A Hurricane Emergency Kit should contain :
    Note: This is not meant to be an exhaustive list, but will be a great start for you.
    1 gallon of water per day (per person)
    Water Bottle (per person)
    Water Purifier or filtration system. I like to carry a filter and some tablets. You can use bleach or iodine tablets.
    3 day supply of food based on a 2,000 calorie diet(per person)
    Eating Utensils
    First-aid Kit
    Weather appropriate clothing
    Flashlight with working batteries; even better is a flashlight with a hand-crank or solar powered charger
    Whistle
    Cash
    Sewing Kit- Needle and thread
    Dust mask
    Towlette
    Toilet Paper
    Hand Wipes
    Garbage Bags
    Wrench, pliers, or a multitool
    Maps
    Cell Phone with hand crank charger
    Paracord or rope
    Survival Knife
    Duct Tape
    Gloves
    Radio, ideally with a hand-crank
    Signaling Equipment
    Tent large enough to fit your family
    Copies of important documents: things like your social security cards, ID cards, birth certificates, marriage certificates.
    Rain Gear

  • You can get pre-cut storm shutters for your windows to protect them from the storm. Taping up windows will not protect them.


  • Securely fasten your roof to the frame structure. This will reduce roof damage.


  • Trim trees and shrubs around your home, this will protect them from the wind.


  • Plan to bring in all outdoor furniture, decorations, garbage cans and anything else that is not tied down.


  • Turn off utilities as instructed. Otherwise, turn the refrigerator thermostat to its coldest setting and keep its doors closed.


  • Turn off propane tanks.


  • Ensure a supply of water for sanitary purposes such as cleaning and flushing toilets. Fill the bathtub and other large containers with water.


During a Hurricane

You should evacuate under any of the following conditions:
    If you are directed by local authorities to do so.
    If you live in a mobile home or temporary structure
    If you live in a high-rise building—hurricane winds are stronger at higher elevations.
    If you live on the coast, on a floodplain, near a river, or on an inland waterway.
    If you feel you are in danger.

If you are unable to evacuate:

  • Stay indoors during the hurricane and away from windows and glass doors.


  • Close all interior doors—secure and brace external doors.


  • Keep curtains and blinds closed. Do not be fooled if there is a lull; it could be the eye of the storm - winds will pick up again.


  • Take refuge in a small interior room, closet, or hallway on the lowest level.


  • Lie on the floor under a table or another sturdy object.
After the Hurricane
  • Be careful of any areas that have experienced flooding. For more information on floods, you can look here.


  • Listen for news reports to learn whether your community’s water supply is safe to drink.


  • Stay away from floodwater; it may be contaminated. Water may also be electrically charged from underground or downed power lines.


  • If you have evacuated, return home only when authorities indicate it is safe.


  • Stay alert for extended rainfall and subsequent flooding even after the hurricane or tropical storm has ended.


  • Drive only if necessary and avoid flooded roads and washed­out bridges.


  • Keep away from loose or dangling power lines and report them immediately to the power company.


  • Stay out of any building that has water around it.


  • Inspect your home for damage. Take pictures of damage, both of the building and its contents, for insurance purposes.


  • Use flashlights in the dark. Do NOT use candles.


  • Avoid drinking or preparing food with tap water until you are sure it’s not contaminated.


  • Check refrigerated food for spoilage. If in doubt, throw it out.


  • Wear protective clothing and be cautious when cleaning up to avoid injury.


If you are looking for a really good checklist, you can follow this link to a printable one from the Red Cross HERE.
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