Texas hasn't even recovered from Hurricane Harvey, and here comes ANOTHER ONE. Hurricane season is definitely in full force. Not only is Irma coming right after Harvey, it is a CATEGORY FIVE. Freaking out? Me too. But, I like to be prepared, so I am making a list of what it could take to get through this storm...
1. Cell phone power bank
Great. The power goes out and your phone is on 5%. This is when a power bank comes in handy. Make sure it is charged and good to go in case of an emergency call scenario.
2. Radio (on batteries)
It is always good to have a way to listen to the news if your phone is dead and your laptop is as well.
3. Bottled Water
That's literally required to actually live, so... I'd get that... more than 2 bottles...
4. FOOD
It's a good idea to get food that won't expire/get bad if the power runs out. This could be canned food (HAVE A MANUAL CAN OPENER), snacks, bread, cereal, etc. Some lists recommend having a 3 day supply of food.
5. Prescriptions
Make sure you have enough meds to get you through the next few days (like a week's worth)! Health should not be overlooked! Also, stock up on OTC meds, if needed.
6. Homework Shenanigans
Just in case something happens, maybe print off those articles you have to read for class? It could be helpful. Maybe your professors will be lenient and give you some slack if you don't do your assignments, but maybe not?
7. Dry Shampoo
It could be your best friend if you cannot operate your showers for whatever reason.
8. Flashlights/laterns
Because, you need to be able to see, right?
9. Batteries
It would be stupid to get all of these things requiring batteries and not even HAVE batteries.
10. First Aid Kit
Why? Shit happens.
11. Hygiene Products
Wouldn't it be the worst if you ran out of tampons in the middle of the hurricane? AND Walgreens is closed? Just saying...
12. Your Pet Needs
Dry dog food, cat food, fish food, pet toys, their bed... just make sure you can feed your pets if you can't reach stores.
13. Cash
Go to the ATM and pull some out. Banks and ATMs could shut down.
14. Documents
Keep urgent documents in a waterproof, easy-to-carry container- this might include passports, ID, social security cards, and account info.
15. Paper/plastic plates/silverware
If you cannot wash your dishes, you might as well have a backup.
16. Blankets
Stay comfy, cozy and warm during the storm! Could also be used for a pillow/blanket fort if you get so inspired.
17. Wine?
Technically, you probably shouldn't have this on the list, but I'm thinking that if you are trapped in your dorm/apartment/house for a few days, you might as well drink.
18. Emergency List of #s
There are good local numbers to have besides just 911.
19. Rain gear
Who knows? You could use the rain boots, rain jacket & other gear.
20. Entertainment
These should be non-electrical things, such as books, magazines, board games, card games, puzzles, etc.
So, get your stuff together and get prepared! A storm is coming!