Having lived in Wilmington for the last 20 years, I have been through several hurricanes… It seems like each time we have forgotten something and it wasn’t until the middle of the storm that we realized it was TOO late to take care of it, so I wanted to send this out for any of you that are new to the area but more importantly…. NEW to hurricanes! Hope it helps you to “Batten down the Hatches” and be prepared to ride out a storm!
Batten down the hatches!! She’s a ‘blowin’ out there!!
The beauty of a hurricane is, there is time to prepare!! If the storm changes its path…Hey, you were ready!! Here are a few tips for Hurricane Preparedness.
1. First, get important papers and special photos in order and in secure plastic. Identification is difficult and time-consuming to replace, so be sure to include social security cards, birth certificates, school diplomas and titles or deeds to property. Photos for special occasions or loved ones often cannot be replaced, so including these is important was well.
2. Think ahead and take video or photos of your property. Whether your stay or leave, this will help you with any insurance claims for damages that may need to be filed.
3. If staying with relatives is not an option, consider booking a room in a hotel or motel in a nearby town or state. Make sure to get directions and put them in the car ahead of time. It is easy to forget that piece of paper in the rush out the door. A cheaper route might be to find temporary hurricane shelters. Usually nearby towns not in the direct path of the storm will provide these for people in need.
4. Unfortunately, it is unlikely that your pet will have a place in a hotel or motel. Keep this in mind and try to find alternate housing like a boarding kennel in areas outside of the path of the storm.
5. Designate a spot in a hall closet or other location in your home, to keep a bag of clothes for each person in your household. Make sure to include sleeping gear if you plan on staying in a temporary shelter.
6. Along with overnight clothes, consider stocking your Hurricane Kit. See a list of items on the attached Hurricane Preparedness Checklist. If you plan to evacuate your home, use this list to pack what you will need for a few days away. Other items will be needed upon your return, so be sure these are stored together for easy access when you get back to your home.
7. Count on the power being out for at least a day or two (maybe longer!) Remember that ATMs will be non-operating, so make sure you have cash to see you through. With no power, many of our means of entertainment will be on hold, so cards, board games, etc. may come in handy. You may need these if you stay at home or in shelter.
8. If you do stay home to tough out the storm, stay downwind. This means if the wind is hitting the living room windows, go to the room opposite the living room.
9. Plywood is a “hot” commodity for those who decide to stay. Boarding up windows can be a wise decision, and if affordable having a professional fit your home for hurricane shutters.
10. Finally, STAY INSIDE! However tempting it may be to video the storm or take photos, be sure to do so from inside where it is safe and dry!!
HURRICANE SURVIVAL MATERIALS
Water (7 gallons per person)
Nonperishable foods; canned meat, fish, fruit and vegetables
Bread in moisture-proof packaging, cookies, candy, dried fruit
Canned soups, juices, milk Powdered or evaporated milk
Cereal bars, peanut butter, Instant coffee and tea
Flashlights and spare batteries*
Weather Radio
Battery-operated TV/radio/alarm clock
Portable cooler and ice
Waterproof lighter & Butane lighter
COOKING EQUIPMENT
Sterno
Portable camp stove or grill, and an extra propane tank
Charcoal, lighter fluid
Manual can opener
Paper plates and cups
Plastic eating utensils
Napkins and paper towels
Aluminum foil
Oven mitts
DOCUMENTS
Photocopies of prescriptions
Photo identification
Proof of occupancy of Residence (utility bills)
Medical history and information
Water and fireproof container for document storage
Backup disks of your home computer files
Camera and film
BABIES
Disposable diapers/wipes
Formula, food and medication
MEDICAL EMERGENCY SUPPLIES
First Aid Kit including pain meds, antibiotic cream, antacids
Prescriptions (one month’s supply)
Mosquito Repellent
Sunscreen
Mosquito netting
Fire extinguisher
Cash
Bleach or water purification tablets
PERSONAL SUPPLIES
Toilet paper
Entertainment: books, magazines, cards, etc.
Soap and detergent
Toiletries
Bedding: pillows, blankets, sleeping bag
Change of clothing
Rain gear and work gloves
Extra glasses or contact lenses
Extra sets of keys
Ice chest
OTHER NECESSITIES
Tools: hammer, wrenches, screwdrivers, nails, saw
Lumber
Rope
Trash bags
Cleaning supplies
Plastic drop cloth
Masking or duct tape
Outdoor extension cords
Spray paint
Masonboro Island, normally calm and peaceful, has recently seen a little too much partying and alchohol consumption on big Holiday weekends such as July 4th and Labor Day. Boaters from all over the Southeast join in on a big party weekend. So, if you plan to visit the island, be sure to keep your alcohol consumption to a minimum and take your garbage with you.
