Florida is undeniably a beautiful state to live in, but with that beauty comes a tradeoff: dealing with hurricanes and tropical storms. The best way to keep yourself and your family safe is to have a predefined emergency plan and a supply kit ready to go. Here’s a list of supplies needed to get your emergency supply kit started!

Supplies to Include in Your Emergency Supply Kit:

Food & Water

• One gallon of water per person per day, for at least 3 days (consider drinking & sanitation)
• Nonperishable food supply for at least 3 days + a non-electric can opener for any canned goods
• Cups, dishes, utensils, & napkins 

General Supplies

• Hand crank or battery powered radio (and extra batteries)
• Flashlight (and extra batteries)
• Cell phone with charger and inverter
• Sleeping bags and blankets
• Cash/coins
• Games, puzzles, books, and other activities (especially for children) 

First Aid

• Bandages, gauze pads, and adhesive tape
• Petroleum jelly/antibiotic ointment 
•  Medications (prescription & OTC) 
  • Include information about name and dosage of medicines & how to administer them
• Moist towelettes/baby wipes
• Soap & hand sanitizer
• Disposable gloves
• Sunscreen
• Cotton balls & swabs
• Tweezers, scissors, sewing needles, and safety pins

Important Documents - Keep in sealed bag or waterproof container 

• List of important phone numbers, including:
  • Friends/Family - local & out-of-town
  • Local Emergency Management Services 
  • Doctors/veterinarians
  • Banks & schools 
• Insurance cards 
• Medical records & prescription information
• Copies of social security cards, birth/marriage certificates, and other personal documents
• Banking information & credit card numbers 
• List of required medical devices (include style, serial number, and manufacturer information)

Pet Care 

• Pet food, water, medications, and dishes 
• Medical records, microchip information, and proper identification 
• Carriers/cages and leashes

Vehicle

• Ensure your gas tank is filled with gasoline before the storm 
• Jumper cables & tire repair kit

Specialty Items 

• Rain gear: jackets, hats, umbrellas, & rain boots
• Formula, bottles, diapers, and other infant supplies (if needed) 
• Any items needed for elderly or disabled family members 

With hurricane season on its way, it is important to make sure your family is prepared for whatever Mother Nature may bring! By building your emergency supply kit ahead of time, you can avoid the stress of scrambling supplies together moments before a storm. Find more tips on what and how to prepare here and be sure to contact us with any questions!