Start here when building your hurricane preparation kit
Those living in Southeast Louisiana are quite familiar with monitoring storms during hurricane season, and, unfortunately, their potential devastation. When the threat of a hurricane requires emergency evacuation, it is crucial to establish a planned route and have a hurricane go-bag packed and ready for the entire family.
FEMA Packing Suggestions For Hurricane Evacuation
- One gallon of water per person per day, for at least three days
- At least a three-day supply of non-perishable food, with a can opener if you are including canned food
- Battery-powered or hand-crank radio, a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert, and extra batteries for both
- Flashlight and extra batteries
- First aid kit
- Whistle, to signal for help
- Dust mask, to help filter contaminated air
- Plastic sheeting and duct tape, for sheltering in place
- Moist towelettes, garbage bags, and plastic ties for personal sanitation needs
- Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities
Other items to include, if there is space:
- Prescription medication, contact lenses, and prescription glasses
- Important documents in a waterproof container: birth certificates, identification, insurance information, bank account information, immunization records, and any documents you might need if you lose access to your phone and/or computer
- Cash (at least $500; recommend $1,500)
- Diapers and infant formula for babies
- Toys and games for older children
- Sleeping bag and/or warm blanket/Mylar emergency blanket for each person
- Complete change of clothing for each person, including a long-sleeved shirt, long pants, and sturdy shoes
- Hats to keep head and neck protected from sun/rain
- Water purification tablets or household chlorine bleach and a medicine dropper. To use bleach as a disinfectant: Dilute nine parts water to one part bleach. To use bleach as an emergency water treatment, put 16 drops into each gallon of water.
- Fire extinguisher
- Matches or a Bic lighter, in a waterproof container
- Personal hygiene items such as a toothbrush, toothpaste, toilet paper, tampons or pads, soap, shampoo, etc.
- Mess kits, paper cups/plates, plastic utensils, paper towels
- Paper and pencil
- Chargers for electronic devices, backup cell phone if owned, digital backup of photos and videos of personal property
It is never too early to pack an emergency go-bag for your family in preparation for hurricane season. Educating others about the importance of preparedness helps ensure safety and awareness within your community. If you have a passion for helping your community and want to continue to make an impact, explore your career options with a Master of Professional Studies in Emergency Management degree from the Tulane School of Professional Advancement. Request more information about our flexible programs.
