Think back to past storms when you heard the wind howling, saw the trees bending, Waffle Houses still open, weather alerts lighting up your phone, and you were wishing you had spent extra time stocking your hurricane kit. You don’t want a repeat of that. Fortunately, there’s still time for a midseason kit check-up!

What To Look For

Before a hurricane or other disaster strikes, open that emergency kit you prepared at the beginning of storm season to make sure nothing’s gone awry. So, what should you look for?

• Dates. Those cans of soup, chili, veggies, beans, and tuna are solid staples, but that doesn’t mean they keep forever. Double-check the “best by” dates and inspect the cans for any damage that could compromise the items inside. Replace and replenish expired items to ensure you have what you need to get through the season.
• Readiness. Just because nonperishables can last a long time doesn’t mean they don’t degrade or need to be replaced. Check batteries, flashlights/lanterns, and weather radios to make sure they still work and nothing is corroded. Look through your first-aid supplies, take inventory of your go-to tools, and test backup batteries for your cell phone to stay connected. Take questionable items out of your kit and replace them with fresh, new ones.
• Life changes. Things change as time passes. Maybe you now need different medications and supplies, or your diet is different. Your household may have changed, too – you’ve welcomed a new child, a family member has moved in with you, or a new pet has joined your family. When reviewing what’s in your kit, include items for these specific needs. Often, your kit is improved by the lessons you’ve learned during prior storms. Customize your kit for the person and family you are today, and do your best to future-proof it.
• Evacuation planning. Florida seems to be in an improvement phase year-round, with construction projects popping up everywhere. Take time to review your evacuation plans and routes for new sheltering locations or updated road conditions. Your best option could be minutes away instead of hours, saving you time and reducing stress while keeping your family safe from the storm.
• Contact list updates. Periodically, do a run-through of family communications and contact/phone trees in case of an emergency to ensure you have everyone’s updated phone numbers. The rule of thumb is to check every three months. Make sure everyone on your contact list knows they are included and reach out ahead of any storm that could require you to activate your emergency plan.

Every Storm Is Different

The peak of hurricane season is here, and Florida’s hurricane season can seem quiet until it isn’t. No matter how experienced you might be, every season is different, and every storm has its own impact. You might be tempted to just go with the flow and brush off planning, but do your future self a favor and get everything in place now while things are calm. You’ll be glad you did when it is time to hunker down for a storm, and you’re prepared.

Storm season doesn’t make an appointment or schedule ahead for convenience. When the wind howls, the rain is never-ending, and trees get bendy, you’ll be ready.