Preparing for Hurricane Irene

Surely by now you've heard of Hurricane Irene barreling down towards the east coast. In an ideal situation, you would already be prepared for it, but judging by what I see in my own neighborhood, I can tell that most didn't seem to worry about it all that much. Maybe it's because New Yorkers aren't really used to being hit by a major hurricane (out of sight, out of mind mentality). Maybe people are waiting until Friday or Saturday to stock up on some essential supplies.

Some of the things I've heard the last few days:
"It'll never happen here."
"It's just like the last hurricane, we were fine then."
"How bad can it be?"
"I'm too busy to get everything prepared ahead of time."
"I don't have enough money to stock up that much supplies."

Sound familiar?

I admit, I don't have everything completely prepared. But since I started this site, I've been doing a lot better in managing and anticipating emergency situations. We still had to go out and pick up a few things yesterday. I still have to stash some supplies in the truck...that sort of thing.

If you're in the path of this hurricane, here's a helpful list straight from the NOAA site

Water - at least 1 gallon daily per person for 3 to 7 days

Food - at least enough for 3 to 7 days
    — non-perishable packaged or canned food / juices
    — foods for infants or the elderly
    — snack foods
    — non-electric can opener
    — cooking tools / fuel
    — paper plates / plastic utensils

Blankets / Pillows, etc.

Clothing - seasonal / rain gear/ sturdy shoes

First Aid Kit / Medicines / Prescription Drugs

Special Items - for babies and the elderly

Toiletries / Hygiene items / Moisture wipes

Flashlight / Batteries

Radio - Battery operated and NOAA weather radio

Telephones - Fully charged cell phone with extra battery and a traditional (not cordless) telephone set

Cash (with some small bills) and Credit Cards - Banks and ATMs may not be available for extended periods

Keys

Toys, Books and Games

Important documents - in a waterproof container or watertight resealable plastic bag
    — insurance, medical records, bank account numbers, Social Security card, etc.

Tools - keep a set with you during the storm

Vehicle fuel tanks filled

Pet care items
    — proper identification / immunization records / medications
    — ample supply of food and water
    — a carrier or cage
    — muzzle and leash

It's a good starter list and most of it you probably already have at home.

For my peeps in NYC, here's some links:
NYC Hurricane Evacuation Finder - just put in your address and it tells you if you are or not
Emergency kit and GoBag

This map is kind of hard to read, this is the largest file I've seen and I'm not sure if it enlarges it when you click but  the highlighted parts are evacuation zones if it comes down to it. So check with your local authorities if you have any questions.

Stay safe.