1. Start running your ice makers early and bag the ice in freezer bags. Fill as much space in between your freezer items as you can.
2. Freeze regular tap water for pets, cleaning or drinking in tupperware-type containers. Leave a small bit of space between the top of the water and the lids so the ice expands but doesn’t crack the container.
3. Start using up your perishables to make more room for ice in the freezer
4. Fill up all vehicles with gas, check tires and oil
5. Get cash from the ATM – at least enough to get you through tolls and gas out of town
6. Take a picture of important documents and send to your email. Take originals in sealed bags or plastic bins.
7. Pet / livestock food and supplies. Pack vet records in case you need to shelter then at a storm-safe facility.
8. Share your evacuation plans with family members so they know where you’re headed
9. Consider putting heirlooms and photos in plastic bins in a high place, second floor, or safe room if you don’t plan on taking them with you
10. Secure all firearms and ammunition properly
11. Put old rags and beach towels on your windowsills. Even with the best windows and shutters, water seeping from the wind pressure happens. A few damp towels is better than soaked drywall or floors.
12. Shutter windows and doors and bring everything outside into your garage or house early. Do not wait until the day before. Better to get done early and relax than wait until it’s too late, especially if you are a first responder, hospital employee, etc.
13. Purchase hurricane supplies early If you don’t already have them
Additional Tips:
14. Fill tubs with water for flushing if you aren’t on city water. 15. Pack dry clothes in heavy duty plastic bags so if you leave you at least have something dry to change into.
16. Put water in 2 liter bottles, like empty soda bottles and freeze them. They take a long time to thaw and are good to keep in freezer or put in frig to keep it cold when the power goes out
