Living on the Crystal Coast means being acquainted with the beauty of coastal life — and the occasional storm. As hurricane season approaches, it's crucial to be prepared. From stocking up on supplies to understanding evacuation routes, a little preparation can make a big difference when the winds pick up. Here's what we're including in our Hurricane Emergency Kit so we can prepare in confidence:
Non-perishables and plenty of water — Keeping a stock of non-perishable food and water will help alleviate grocery store stress both before and after a storm occurs. Don't forget to stock up on food for any pets, too!
Battery radio — In the event that the power is out, staying apprised of storm updates is key. Don't forget to stock up on batteries, too!
Cash — In the event of a power outage, ATMs may be unusable and stores may not be able to process credit cards. Keep cash in your kit to purchase things like food, water and medicine after the storm.
First-Aid Kit — It sounds like a no-brainer, but many forget to include a simple first aid kit in their hurricane bag. Be sure to include any medications that you take on a regular basis.
LED Lantern — We like the Lighthouse Core Lantern by GoalZero that features a USB charging port and a long-lasting battery to keep your potentially powerless nights bright.
Documents — Make a copy of all important family documents (insurance policies, identification, bank account records, etc.) and keep them in your hurricane preparedness bag.
Storage — Utilize an airtight, waterproof bin (with a lid!) for your hurricane emergency kit to ensure all of the contents stay safe and dry.
Here are some other useful tips to ensure your home and loved ones stay safe:
Secure your exterior — Trim any large trees or shrubs and bring all patio furniture, potted plants, bicycles, toys, etc. indoors.
Secure your interior — Secure your wall hangings and take note of any already existing damage to your home and belongings. Place anything of value elevated off of the floor.
Move cars — Park cars in a garage or move to higher ground if flooding is an issue in your area. Do not park under trees or power lines, if possible.
Fuel up — Fill your gas tanks with fuel, charge your wireless devices (don't forget your battery banks!) and have fuel ready for your generator in case of power outages.
Stay informed with weather updates via the National Weather Service at Weather.Gov and follow directions according to any Wireless Emergency Alerts. Stay safe, stay prepared, and remember that a well-prepared community is a resilient one (and we know Carteret County is one of the best!).