Hurricane season on the east coast runs from June 1 to November 30, with storms peaking during the month of September.
The most serious threats for Caroline County from hurricanes are the potential for extended power outages, falling trees and other damage from high winds, and localized flooding. Some simple preparation in advance of a coming storm can help you and your family weather it safely and as comfortably as possible.
An emergency kit doesn’t need to be fancy or require any kind of special container. To put together a kit, all you need to do is gather supplies and materials and keep everything in a place that you can easily access or gather.
Make sure you have all the basics:
- Water – one gallon per person, per day with extra for pets or if it is hot
- Food – non-perishable items and a safe way to open and prepare them
- Flashlights, candles, rechargeable lanterns – don’t forget extra batteries
- Prescription medications – be sure to refill any you need ahead of time
- Infant formula and diapers
- Wet wipes and hand sanitizer for sanitation
- Cell phone and external batteries
- A NOAA weather radio with a hand crank
- Games and activities
Some additional tips:
- Fill up your car with gas. If there are power outages, you won’t be able to get gas and lines will be long when it comes back on.
- Get cash out of the ATM in case power is out and you can’t pay with cards.
- Clean out your gutters to be ready for heavy rains and take stock of outdoor items that will need to be secured in the event of a storm.
- Check in with elderly family, friends, and neighbors who may need help putting together their emergency kits or preparing their homes.
- If you have a septic system, fill up bathtubs or buckets before the storm that can be used to refill toilet tanks. Do not use this water for drinking.
- Visit your public library to get free books and activities to help keep the kids occupied.
- Keep devices plugged in and charging so that you have as much battery as possible if the storm goes out.
- If you have a generator, get it ready, review tips for safe use, and be sure you have a battery powered carbon monoxide detector.
- Be sure you are following all the best sources for storm alerts and updates. We have a complete list on the emergency preparedness section of our website