Hurricane Preparation Tips and Checklists


The 2009 Hurricane Season: June 1 – November 30

The steps you take before a hurricane can help save lives and get your household back in order once the storm passes.  These checklists and resources can help get you started. Just click on any of these to see the expanded information:

Essential Household Items Checklist

When you are collecting supplies make sure you have enough of everything for at least two weeks. Keep supplies in airtight containers or plastic bags.

Check box Water - at least 1 gallon daily per person for 3 to 7 days. Use clean containers for storing drinking water. Food-grade plastic containers that have screw caps, such as 2-liter soda bottles, are best. Plastic milk jugs, though they can be leaky, will do in a pinch.
Check box Food - at least enough for 3 to 7 days
  • non-perishable packaged or canned food / juices
  • foods for infants or the elderly
  • snack foods
  • non-electric can opener
  • cooking tools / fuel
  • paper plates / plastic utensils
Check box Disposable plastic eating utensils, to help you save water.
Check box Hand-operated can opener
Check box Gallon-sized freezer bags for making ice: You'll want to fill them with water and freeze as many as you can a few days before the storm is expected to arrive.
Check box Household bleach, without lemon scent, to purify water.
Check box Blankets / Pillows, etc.
Check box Clothing - seasonal / rain gear/ sturdy shoes
Check box First Aid Kit / Medicines / Prescription Drugs
Check box Special Items - for babies and the elderly
Check box Toiletries / Hygiene items / Moisture wipes
Check box Soap with a covered plastic container
Check box Flashlight for each member of the family with extra batteries
Check box Radio - Battery operated and NOAA weather radio
Check box Telephones - Fully charged cell phone with extra battery and a traditional (not cordless) telephone set
Check box Cash (with some small bills) and Credit Cards
  • SCCU ATMs, as well as stand-alone ATMs, will remain operable and available for member cash withdrawals and deposits, as long as there is no damage or loss of power. But, plan ahead –– at least a couple of days –– to withdraw needed funds out of the ATM; don't wait until the day you're trying to evacuate.
Check box Keys
Check box Toys, Books and Games
Check box Important documents - in a waterproof container or watertight resealable plastic bag
  • insurance, medical records, bank account numbers, Social Security card, etc.
Check box Vehicle fuel tanks filled
Check box Pet care items
  • proper identification / immunization records / medications
  • ample supply of food and water
  • a carrier or cage
  • muzzle and leash
Check box Mosquito repellent
Check box Several boxes of garbage bags, with ties, to collect refuse and store goods to keep them dry.
Check box Tools: see our Must-Have Tools and Other Materials Checklist


Must-Have Tools and Other Materials

Check box Hand Saw
Check box Plywood or Storm Shutters
Check box Claw Hammer
Check box Pliers/Vice Grips
Check box Shovel
Check box Flashlight & Batteries
Check box Generator
Check box Weather Radio
Check box Push Broom
Check box Utility Knife
Check box Work Gloves
Check box Fire Extinguisher
Check box Chainsaw
Check box Extension Cords
Check box Plywood or Storm Shutters
Check box Tarp: canvas or 6-mil plastic sheeting. Good for making temporary roof repairs or tents
Check box Charcoal or Gas Grill. Don’t forget a supply of fuel so you can cook if you are left without electricity or gas. Never use a grill inside.
Check box Lantern with extra fuel or batteries
Check box Rope or heavy cord. Get 100 feet. It can be useful an many ways. As a clothesline, for example.
Check box Safety razor blades
Check box Whistle or air horn
Check box Duct tape and masking tape.
Check box Radio or battery-powered TV with extra batteries
Check box Fuel for your generator or chain saw
Check box Oven mitts, for handling hot cookware.


Free Hurricane Tracking Map



Earn Rewards When Shopping for Your Hurricane Items

With SCCU’s ScoreCard Rewards® Program, you earn points redeemable for fantastic rewards, like merchandise & travel vouchers, loan discounts, and charity donations – simply for shopping with your SCCU Visa® Debit Card or Platinum Credit Card.


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