23 Items to Add to Your Storm Ready Shopping List

[Briana Hartzell USAA]

Updated April 2021

You never know when a natural disaster might strike, so it's important to be prepared. I have never been happier to have supplies on hand when in 2010 my active duty husband was ordered to fly a jet to safety in another state leaving me in command of preparing our home for a big storm solo! It was nice to have a dedicated space where I knew we had window coverings, and all other emergency items -it made this daunting task a little less scary.

A large part of being prepared includes having some helpful supplies on hand. Here is a list to get you started, as you think about what storm supplies and items might be helpful in the case you and your family are affected by a natural disaster.

Emergency preparation supply list suggestions:

High Dollar Items:

• Portable generators
• Emergency ladders
• Hurricane shutters

Safety Devices:

• Carbon monoxide detectors
• Fire extinguishers
• Smoke detectors

Electronics:

• Radios - portable self-powered (including battery operated) - includes two-way and weather band radios
• Batteries, single or multipack (AAA cell, AA cell, C cell, D cell, 6 volt or 9 volt)
• Mobile telephone batteries and mobile telephone chargers

Food Related:

• Can openers - nonelectric
• Coolers and ice chests for food storage – nonelectric
• Ice products - reusable and artificial
• Water (1 gallon per person, per day)

Miscellaneous:

• Axes, hatchets, hammer
• Fuel containers
• Ground anchor systems and tie-down kits
• Light sources - portable self-powered (including battery operated)
• Candles, flashlights and lanterns
• Tarps and other plastic sheeting
• Storm Shutters or plywood

Self-care items:

• Antibacterial hand sanitizer
• Soap
• Spray and wipes
• First aid kits

Even though most Americans live in areas that have been affected by weather-related emergencies, the majority of us aren't prepared to deal with a natural disaster. Hopefully the list above will help you get a good start.

For additional ways you can prepare for natural disasters, visit USAA.com/help.

What do you make sure to stock up on when preparing for a natural disaster or storm? Please share in the comments.

Source: Emergency Preparation Supplies Sales Tax Holiday April 24-26

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