If you plan to stay home during a hurricane, you should have the following items on hand. It is a good idea to get these items at the beginning of the hurricane season because as a storm approaches, stores become very busy and stock is depleted quickly.

Water
Water should be stored in plastic containers. Avoid using containers that will decompose or break. Store one gallon of water per person per day. It is also a good idea to fill bathtubs and sinks with water for sanitation use. Water purification agents such as bleach should also be on hand.

Food
Store at least a one week supply of non-perishable food. Select foods that require no refrigeration, cooking or preparation. If you must heat food, pack a can of sterno.

First Aid Kit
It is a good idea to have two first aid kits. One for your home and the other for your car. Your kit should include things like bandages, scissors, tweezers, soap, latex gloves, lubricant, assorted size safety pins and any non-prescription drugs deemed necessary.

Tools and Other Supplies
You should have a basic tool kit with items you feel are necessary to make temporary repairs after the storm. Some other items you should consider are plastic sheeting, paper plates and plastic utensils, flashlights and a battery operated radio with plenty of spare batteries, non-electric can opener, fire extinguisher, tent, matches, aluminum foil, plastic storage containers, plastic garbage bags, small shovel, insect repellent and personal hygiene items.

Clothing and Bedding
Some clothing and beddings items should be protected by placing them in waterproof boxes, plastic bags or other suitable containers. Include at least one change of clothing and footwear per person. Some items to consider are work boots and gloves, rain gear, blankets or sleeping bags, towels, hat, sunglasses.

Special Items

• Corded Phones - Cordless phones will not operate if power is lost.
• Battery Jump-Start Pak with charger adaptor.  These can be used to plug cell phone chargers into and have continued service.  (This item can be found at places such as Sam's Club or auto parts supply stores).
• The purchase of an automobile charger would also be helpful in the event of power outages for the purpose of charging cell phones.
• Always remember family members with special needs.
• For children you should have plenty of necessary baby formula, diapers, bottles and medications.
• Adults with medications such as insulin or other prescription drugs should have their prescriptions filled before the storm.
• Extra Eyeglasses
• Sunglasses
• Hearing-Aid Batteries
• Insect Spray
• Sunscreen
• Hat or cap to wear in the sun
• Appropriate clothes to wear after the storm: closed-toe shoes, several changes of socks, rain gear.  It may be sunny and hot; it may rain
• Spray paint for painting your insurance carrier's name on your house so roving adjusters know who you are; and for painting your address - street signs may be blown down
• Air horn or whistle (to call for assistance)
• Vitamins
• Medications for routine illnesses such as colds (we all get sick after great stress and exhaustion)
• Flat fixer for tires (streets may be full of glass, sharp rubble)
• Work gloves to pick up broken glass
• Laundry detergent (you may be washing clothes in a bucket until the power is back on)
• Bleach, for demolding
• Manually operated can openers
• Pet Food
• Powerful flashlight or a laser pointer so you can attract attention/get help in the dark