Hurricane Season Tips

As we are now officially in the Hurricane Season, it is imperative for everyone to be prepared.  Below are some tips to assist you.  Further information can also be obtained from http://www.odpm.gov.tt/sites/default/files/Hurricanes.pdf

It is recommended that you have a ‘Hurricane’ Cupboard or Box to keep the items you should have in stock at the beginning of the Hurricane Season.  These items include:

• Manual Can Opener – You will probably not have electricity for an extended time period.
• 1^st Aid Kit.
• Duct Tape.
• Toiletries including soap and toilet paper
• Garbage Bags
• Canned foodstuff (ensure expiry date is after season is over)
• Flashlights
• Battery-operated radio
• Batteries for radio and flashlights
• Paper plates, utensils and napkins
• Pampers (if applicable)
• Ensure at least a month’s supply of medicines.
• Cell phone car-charger.

When you hear that a hurricane is approaching, you should then further stock up with the following:

• Cash – ATM’s probably will not be working.
• Ensure you fill your car’s gas tank as without electricity, gas pumps will not work.
• Water. It is estimated that you will need 1 gallon of water per day per person.  You should also fill bathtubs, etc. with water that can be used for flushing toilets, bathing, etc.
• Ice. Besides buying, you can make ice using any suitable containers you have.  This also helps keep the contents of your freezer cold in the likely event that you lose electricity.
• Turn your fridge to its lowest setting so that items will last longer after electricity goes. Also, arrange the stuff in it in order of possible use to reduce the time you have to open the door to the refrigerator.
• You might also want to fill a cooler with ice and put some stuff in it that you will use first so as not to have to open the refrigerator for as long as possible.
• Put all your important documents (passport, ID, Birth Certificate, Insurance Policy, etc. ) in a water-proof container including
• Store sheets, pillows & cases, clothes and shoes in plastic bags
• Ensure your cell phone is fully charged. If using a prepaid cell, ensure you have a spare card.
• List of emergency telephone numbers (police, ambulance, fire, NEMA).
• You should also remove all outside furniture and loose items, and make sure your car is protected as far as possible.

Here is hoping you never have to experience a hurricane.  Do not forget to use all the perishable items stored after the Hurricane Season is over.