Hurricanes · 7 min read
Hurricane preparedness kit: a complete household checklist
Prepare for high winds, flooding and long power cuts with a comprehensive hurricane kit for sheltering or evacuation.
PrepKit · Updated on
What makes hurricanes different
Unlike many sudden disasters, hurricanes often come with days of warning, but their impact is prolonged and multi-faceted. They combine extremely high winds with torrential rain, storm surges, and the potential for flooding well inland. Preparedness requires planning for two distinct scenarios: sheltering safely at home or evacuating immediately if ordered.
Expect long-term utility outages. Power, water, and gas may be unavailable for days or even weeks after a major hurricane passes, meaning your household must be ready to manage entirely on stored resources.
Water and food requirements
While the standard recommendation is 72 hours, hurricane-prone areas should aim for a week of supplies. Store at least four litres of water per person per day for drinking and basic hygiene. Choose shelf-stable foods that require no refrigeration and minimal or no cooking, as power and gas are likely to be cut.
Keep a manual tin opener and disposable plates and cutlery to conserve water. If you rely on a well, remember that electric pumps will not work during a power outage; store extra water for flushing toilets and washing hands.
Go bag vs home supplies
Your hurricane kit should be divided into two parts. The home kit contains bulkier items like large water containers, heavy blankets, and larger food reserves. The go bag (or evacuation backpack) is a portable version containing your most critical items: identification, cash, medication, a change of clothes, and basic light and communication tools.
If authorities issue an evacuation order, do not wait. Grab your go bags and leave immediately. Having them packed in advance ensures you do not waste vital minutes searching for essentials under stress.
Protecting the home and documents
Before the wind picks up, secure your home. Permanent storm shutters offer the best protection, but marine-grade plywood (at least 5/8 inch thick) is a viable alternative. Do not use tape on windows; it does not prevent breaking and can create larger, more dangerous shards.
Store important documents—such as insurance policies, ID, and property records—in a waterproof, portable container. Digital copies on a secure drive or in the cloud are helpful, but paper originals are necessary if networks are down.
Generator and carbon monoxide safety
If you use a portable generator, never run it inside a house, garage, crawlspace, or shed, even if doors and windows are open. Carbon monoxide is odourless and deadly. Place the generator outside, at least 6 metres (20 feet) away from windows, doors, and vents.
Install battery-operated carbon monoxide detectors on every level of your home. Always turn the generator off and let it cool down before refuelling to prevent fires.
After the storm
Wait for official word that it is safe to return or go outside. Be wary of downed power lines, which may still be live, and avoid walking or driving through floodwaters. Standing water may be contaminated or hide dangerous debris and animals.
Document any damage with photos and videos for insurance purposes before beginning clean-up. Use proper safety gear, including thick gloves and sturdy boots, to avoid injury from nails, broken glass, or unstable structures.
Keep preparing