Is Your Hurricane Preparedness Kit Ready?

Been sitting here watching CNN track Hurricane Irene, and seems like a good time to put some thought into a Hurricane Readiness Kit...a set of basic supplies that will allow you to take care of yourself and your family for a period of 72 hours. New York could take a direct hit, and that means we could see some very heavy rains, high winds, down trees, and perhaps even downed power lines leaving us without electricity. For those of you wondering what you should look at having on the ready, here is a basic checklist you can use.

1. Water- one gallon per person, per day (3 day supply) *it is recommended here if things get tough that you also fill your tub with water for things like flushing toilets.
   
2. Non-perishable food (3 day supply) and hand-held can opener...tuna is a good thing to have several cans of, as well as peanut butter.
   
3. Snack Food...Cashews, raisins, apples, plums, crackers.
   
4. Cooking tools and fuel...outdoor grill (fill your propane tank) and/or a camp stove.
   
5. Paper plates and plastic utensils
6. Blankets and pillows
7. Clothing- rain gear, shoes, warm clothing
8. First Aid Kit and medications (3 day supply)
9. Toiletries and hygiene items
10. Diapers and other specialty items for babies and the elderly
11. Flashlights and candles
    
12. Batteries
13. Radio- battery operated NOAA radio
14. Fully charged cell phones and traditional household telephone
15. Cash (ATM's may not be available)
16. Insurance, medical, bank, social security documents
17. Toys, books, games for children entertainment
18. Tools
19. Pet care items
20. Keys to car...have car parked on high ground.