Disasters can happen with little warning. Atlantic and Gulf hurricane season continues through Nov. 30, and after that, Texas families may face ice storms and other winter weather. Tornadoes, hurricanes and severe winter conditions can disrupt daily life, knock out power or force people to leave home. Hoping it won’t happen is not a plan; preparing supplies ahead of time can make a difficult situation easier to manage. TexasReady, a preparedness resource from the Texas Department of State Health Services, recommends building a disaster kit all at once or a little at a time. Start with supplies already at home, then add what is missing. Pack essentials for each person and pet in a portable container or backpack; a waterproof container is best. These supplies can be useful whether a family evacuates or stays home.
Start with Food, Water and Health Supplies
TexasReady recommends keeping a three-day supply of nonperishable food and one gallon of water per day for each person and pet. Include a manual can opener and, if needed, baby food, formula, bottles and diapers.
A basic kit should also include medications, a first-aid kit, hand sanitizer, wipes, toilet paper, paper towels, garbage bags, dental and personal hygiene products, sunscreen and insect repellent. Families may also need glasses, hearing aids, contact lenses and other supplies they rely on every day.
Plan for Communication and Important Documents
A battery-powered or crank radio can help families receive emergency information if cell service or electricity is unavailable. TexasReady also recommends flashlights and extra batteries, a phone charger or backup battery, matches stored in a waterproof container, and a whistle.
Keep copies of important records together in a waterproof bag. These may include identification, insurance and prescription cards, medical records, emergency contacts, insurance and property documents, vehicle records, bank information and copies of important keys. Current family photos can also help if relatives become separated. Store Social Security numbers separately from other documents to reduce the risk of identity theft.
Prepare for Evacuation or Staying Home
Families who may need to evacuate by car should keep supplies near the vehicle. Suggested items include road maps, repair tools, food and water, sturdy shoes, clothing, rain gear, blankets, towels and activities for children. Before leaving, TexasReady advises checking the spare tire, filling the gas tank, charging phones, taking payment cards and cash, contacting a family emergency contact, and planning a route. Drive Texas is a TxDOT website that has a real time information on road closures.
If staying home is the safest option, consider having smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, a fire extinguisher, and plastic sheeting and duct tape. The checklist recommends a carbon monoxide detector when using generators, charcoal grills or camp stoves.
Remember Individual Needs and Pets
People with disabilities or access and functional needs may need extra medications, prescription copies, medical supplies, mobility aids, hearing-aid batteries, communication devices, special-diet food or a cooler for temperature-sensitive medication. Medical equipment should be labeled with contact information.
Pets need a plan, too. Pack at least three days of food and water, bowls, medications, vaccination records, a leash, a carrier or crate, and pet first-aid supplies. Cat owners should also plan for litter and a litter box. Keep a current photo of each pet in case one gets lost.
Families can review and download the full TexasReady Disaster Supply Checklist and use it to build a kit at a manageable pace.
