If you live along the Carolina coast, you already know that hurricane season is not something you can afford to think about later.
Having a well-stocked hurricane supply kit ready before May 1 gives your family the best chance to stay safe, whether you shelter in place or need to evacuate on short notice.
At C.T. Lowndes, we want to help you protect what matters most, and that starts long before a storm ever forms. Reach out to our team anytime to make sure your insurance policies are just as prepared as your emergency kit.
Start With the Basics: Water and Non-Perishable Food
Water is the most essential item in any basic emergency supply kit, and the recommendation is simple: store one gallon per person, per day for at least two weeks. Do not forget your pets when you calculate that number.
For food, build a supply of non-perishable food items that require little to no preparation. Think canned goods, dried fruit, nuts, peanut butter, and crackers, and keep a manual can opener in the bag with them.
Build Your Safety Supplies Around Light and Communication
A reliable flashlight with extra batteries is one of the most important items you can have when the power goes out. Stock up on batteries in the sizes your flashlights and other devices actually use.
A battery-powered or hand-crank radio is important for receiving emergency alerts when cell service is down. Add a signal whistle to your kit as well, which can help you alert rescuers if you ever find yourself in a dangerous situation.
Also good to have would be a portable battery that is charged, and will re-charge on solar power. If you have this you can stay connected to the internet by using a portable satellite internet service.
Put Together a First Aid Kit
A solid first aid kit should be included in every basic disaster supplies kit, no exceptions. Stock it with bandages, antiseptic wipes, gauze, medical tape, pain relievers, and any prescription medications your family depends on.
Do not forget hand sanitizer and soap for basic sanitation needs, especially if running water becomes unavailable. Personal hygiene supplies like toilet paper, dust masks, and extra towels round out this category nicely.
Gather Your Important Documents
This step is one people often overlook until it is too late. Store waterproof copies of your important documents in a dedicated folder or pouch inside your kit.
That full list should include your social security card, driver’s license and other identification, birth certificates, insurance policies, medical records, wills, and any other documents that would be difficult or impossible to replace.
Keeping both physical copies and digital backups stored securely gives you an extra layer of protection.
Include Practical Tools and Supplies
A good hurricane kit also needs a few functional tools to help you respond to what a storm leaves behind. A wrench and pliers are recommended items for shutting off utilities, and duct tape has practically unlimited uses in an emergency situation.
Keep cash on hand since ATMs and card readers may not be functional after a major storm. A waterproof bag or container is the best place to store these items so they stay protected no matter what.
Prepare for Every Person in Your Household
If you have infants or young children, diapers, formula, and a few games or comfort items should absolutely be included. Keeping kids calm and occupied during a stressful event makes a real difference for the whole family.
If someone in your home has mobility needs or a medical condition, make sure those essential items are ready to go and easy to access. Think about each person specifically when you are assembling your kit, not just the household as a whole.
Do Not Forget Your Pets
Your pets are family, and their emergency supplies need to be included in your planning. Store enough food, water, and any medications they need for at least two weeks, the same standard you are applying to everyone else.
Pack a leash, carrier, and copies of their vaccination records in your kit as well. Many emergency shelters have specific rules about pets, so it helps to know your options before you need to evacuate and leave in a hurry.
Prepare a Go-Bag for Your Car
Keeping a smaller emergency bag in your car means you are covered even if a storm catches you away from home. Fill it with water, snacks, a first aid kit, a warm blanket, a flashlight with extra batteries, and basic sanitation supplies.
This car kit does not need to be elaborate, but it should cover the essentials for 24 to 48 hours. A fully stocked go-bag stored in your vehicle gives you real peace of mind during those unpredictable early days of hurricane season.
Check and Refresh Your Kit Every Year
The best time to build your kit is before hurricane season officially begins in May, but checking it annually is just as important. Replace expired food and batteries, update your important documents, and add any new supplies that your household may need.
Emergency preparedness is not a one-time task. It is an ongoing commitment to keeping your family safe and ready no matter what comes your way.
Make Sure Your Insurance Is Ready Too
A hurricane supply kit helps you stay safe during a storm. Your insurance policies are what help you rebuild after one. The team at C.T. Lowndes is here to help you review your home, flood, and auto coverage before hurricane season so there are no surprises when you need to file a claim.
Contact us today and let us help you make sure every part of your emergency plan is in place.
People Also Ask These Questions About Hurricane Supply Kits
What should be in a basic hurricane supply kit?
A basic hurricane supply kit should include at least a two-week supply of water and non-perishable food, a first aid kit, extra batteries, a flashlight, a battery-powered or hand-crank radio, important documents, cash, sanitation supplies like hand sanitizer and toilet paper, and any prescription medications your family needs. A waterproof bag or container is the best way to store everything together and keep it protected.
How much water should I store in my emergency kit?
The standard recommendation is one gallon of drinking water per person, per day, for a minimum of two weeks. If you have pets, factor their needs into that total as well. Store water in sealed, food-grade containers and replace it periodically to keep it fresh.
What important documents should I include in my disaster kit?
Your kit should include waterproof copies of your social security card, photo identification, birth certificates, insurance policies, medical records, wills, and emergency contact information. Keeping both physical copies in a waterproof bag and digital backups stored securely online gives you the best protection if originals are lost or damaged.
Should I have a separate emergency kit in my car?
Yes, keeping a go-bag in your car is a smart idea, especially during hurricane season. Fill it with water, snacks, a first aid kit, a warm blanket, extra batteries, a flashlight, and basic sanitation supplies. It does not need to be as comprehensive as your home kit, but it should be enough to keep you prepared for at least 24 to 48 hours.
Does homeowners insurance cover hurricane damage?
Standard homeowners insurance typically covers wind damage caused by a hurricane, but flood damage is usually a separate policy. If you live in a coastal area, it is important to review your coverage carefully and make sure you have the right combination of home, flood, and wind policies in place before a storm arrives. The team at C.T. Lowndes can walk you through your options and help you find the right fit for your home and budget.
