It’s that time of year again - Hurricane Season on the Gulf Coast. From June 1st to November 30th each year those of us along the Texas Gulf Coast keep a watchful eye on the nightly weather report.

Before this season gets into full swing, make sure you have needed supplies on hand. Don’t wait until the last minute to stock up as shelves empty fast when a hurricane is coming!

Here are a few tips to make sure your family is prepared and some handy Hurricane Supply Lists.

* Before a hurricane approaches, gather important documents like insurance policies, personal documents (birth certificates, etc..), household inventory, car titles, deeds, leases, and tax information. Make an inventory of personal property, household furnishings and equipment. Take pictures of your home, inside and out to document your valuables for the insurance company. Place these in a safe deposit box or other safe, dry place.

* Make sure you have your prescriptions filled and at least a 2 week supply on hand. Drugstores will be very busy so as soon as you think a storm is coming, have those prescription refilled.

* Store at least a week’s worth of water for your family and pets - have at least one gallon per person, per day.

* When shopping be sure to get enough nonperishable foods to sustain your family for two weeks. Don’t forget treats and comfort foods for children.

* As the storm approaches and well before the lights go out, fill plastic containers and freeze them. Fill your coolers with ice. You can also fill the washing machine with water for washing hands, etc..

Hurricane Kit Supplies:

• Flashlights
• Battery-operated radio
• Battery-operated lanterns
• Extra batteries
• Toilet paper
• Matches
• Wind up Clock
• Plastic garbage bags
• Working fire extinguishers
• Scissors
• Rain gear
• Map of the area to assist in evacuations

Stock Up on the Following Foods and Beverages:

• Bottled water
• Ice
• Canned and powdered milk
• Beverages (powdered or canned, fruit juices, instant coffee, tea)
• Prepared foods (canned soups, beef, spaghetti, tuna, chicken, ham, corned beef hash, fruit cocktail, packaged pudding)
• Canned vegetables and fruits
• Dried fruits
• Snacks (crackers, cookies, hard candy, nuts)
• Snack spreads (peanut butter, cheese spreads, jelly)
• Cereals
• Raw vegetables
• Sugar, salt, pepper
• Bread
• Dry and canned pet food
• Extra formula, baby food
• Diapers and Wipes

Medical Supplies:

• Prescription drugs
• Insect-repellent sprays
• Feminine hygiene items
• Sunscreen
• Soap
• First-aid kit and first-aid handbook
• Extra over-the-counter medicine (for colds, allergies, cough)
• Children’s medicines
• Adhesive tape
• Cotton-tipped swabs
• Antiseptic solution
• Sterile rolls, bandages
• Ear drops
• Thermometer
• Tweezers
• Needles
• Disinfectant

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