Be Prepared for Storms

Have Plenty of Food

• Keep a 3 to 5 day supply of drinking water in plastic bottles. Plan on 1 gallon of water per person, per day.
• Store a manual can opener with enough nonperishable foods for 3 to 5 days. Canned meats, tuna fish and peanut butter are good foods to store. Don't forget pet foods!
• Conserve water by using paper plates and plastic utensils.
• Have a camp stove or grill for outdoor cooking.

Stay in Touch

• Have a portable, battery-powered radio and alarm clock.
• Have one non-portable phone that will work even if power is interrupted.
• Plan where to meet and how to communicate with family members if separated.
• Keep essential family member contact information near your phone, in your wallet, and in your car.

Keep Things Going

• Keep plenty of gas in your car.
• Keep extra batteries, matches, propane, charcoal and firewood.

Stay Happy, Healthy and Warm

• Maintain a supply of prescriptions, nonprescription drugs, vitamins and special dietary foods.
• Playing cards, books, drawing and writing supplies, and board games help pass the time. If you have a video camera and tapes, your family can make a storm documentary.
• Keep sanitary and personal hygiene supplies replenished. Pre-moistened cleansing towelettes are useful and help conserve water.
• Use plastic trash bags and ties for garbage.
• Put first-aid kits in your home and car.
• Make sure you have cold weather clothing, foul weather gear, blankets and sleeping bags.
• Consider purchasing alternative UL-approved heating devices. For example, a fireplace insert or wood stove will keep the heat in your home instead of up the chimney.
• Use flashlights and other battery-operated lighting instead of candles.
• Keep fire extinguishers fully charged.
• Fill your bathtub with water for bathroom use before the storm (if you have a well).