Prepping for Hurricane Season in Hampton Roads

You can never be over-prepared for the possibility of a disaster to strike. It’s officially the Atlantic hurricane season (June 1-November 30) and the time to start planning is now. It’s not a good idea to wait until there is an actual threat to start preparing and gathering supplies. In the event a hurricane is on its way, there may be only a few days to prepare and in many cases, this is not enough time to gather the essential items you need. 

Create an emergency communication plan

Household information

Write down contact information like phone numbers and email addresses for everyone in your household and other contacts such as extended family, co-workers, and friends. In the event you don’t have access to your cell phone, having contact information written down will help you when you get the chance to reconnect with others. 

School, childcare, and workplace emergency plans

Make sure everyone in your family is signed up for alerts and/or emails for updates and warnings about school, work, and local government agencies (police, fire station, public health service, etc.). This will give you an additional way to access important and timely information. 

Other important contact information

Keep contact information for emergency services, medical providers, veterinarians, utilities, and your insurance provider. For more resources, take a look at FEMA’s official emergency communication plan.

Gather essential emergency supplies 

Following an emergency situation, you may need to be able to survive on your own for a few days. To be accurately prepared means having enough food, water, and other supplies to last you at least three to five days. Creating a disaster supply kit will help you feel confident and prepared should an emergency situation arise. 

Here are some basic items to keep in your emergency kit: 

  • Water, one gallon per person per day for at a minimum of three days

  • A three day supply of non-perishable food 

  • A battery-powered or hand crank radio and an NOAA weather radio with tone alert and extra batteries for both

  • First aid kit

  • Flashlight and extra batteries

  • Can opener for food

  • Moist towelettes, garbage bags, and plastic ties for personal sanitation

  • Local maps

  • Prescription medications and glasses 

For a full list of all recommended items check the official FEMA site here

Since you won’t know where you’ll be when an emergency hits, keep supplies in a cool space in your house, at your job, and in your car. 

Don’t forget about your pets, prep for them also 

If you are a pet owner, you’ll need to bring emergency items for them as well. Make sure you have a crate or carrier that can comfortably fit them along with their leash and harness. You’ll also need to have fresh water, food, and serving bowls, you’ll want to have around a 5 day supply. 

Make sure all your pet’s tags are up to date with your current contact information in case they get loose. Many animals become stressed with inclement weather and can potentially run off if scared. If your pet takes any medications you’ll need to bring those along as well (heartworm, flea meds, etc.) while keeping track of their current medication schedule. 

In the event you have to leave your home, call around to see which local evacuation shelters or hotels allow pets. Whatever you do, do not leave your pet behind. Remember, if it’s not safe for you, it’s not safe for your pet. They could potentially get trapped or exposed to many hazards if left unattended. 

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