Hurricane Checklists

Create a home emergency kit and "go bag" for each family member

Think 72 Hours

A disaster may be so extensive that despite their best efforts, first responders and/or utilities may be unable to immediately respond to your family's needs. Within this time frame, essential utilities such as gas, water, cell towers, and electricity may malfunction. To keep your family safe, consider keeping enough emergency supplies for at least 72 hours post-disaster. 

In general, it is recommended that you keep at least three gallons of water per person and three days of nonperishable, ready-to-eat foods. Also, some families prepare emergency "go bags" with such items as the following:

General Items*

  • Flashlights, do not use candles, and be sure to have enough batteries
  • Radio (battery operated or wind up), and spare batteries
  • Cash and credit cards. Banks and ATMS may not be available after a storm
  • Download the What3Words App
  • Blankets, a complete change of warm clothes, and sturdy shoes
  • Eating utensils, can opener, pocket tool set, and waterproof matches
  • Dust masks, waterproof tape, and plastic sheeting for shelter
  • Toothbrushes, soap, towels, and toilet paper
  • Extra set of house keys, car keys, and office keys
  • Extra cell phone battery or charger
  • City of Orange Beach hurricane re-entry decal
  • Special needs items for seniors and the disabled
  • Child-care supplies (e.g. formula, diapers)
  • Paper, pencils, books, and games for children
  • 2-week supply of medication in a waterproof container, and medical supplies used regularly
  • List of the style, serial number, and manufacturer information of required medical devices
  • Face masks, disinfectant wipes, and hand sanitizer
  • Feminine supplies

Copies of Important Documents (in a waterproof container)

  • List of emergency contacts (friends and family, out of town contact, doctor, evacuation site, banks, schools, veterinarian, etc.) evacuation plans, family meeting places, and a local map
  • Insurance cards
  • Medical records
  • Bank numbers
  • Credit card numbers
  • Copy of social security card
  • Copies of birth and/or marriage certificates
  • Service animal ID, vet records, and proof of ownership
  • Copies of prescriptions and a list of allergies
  • Copy of will

Vehicle

  • Keep your motor vehicle tanks filled with gasoline

Pet Care Items

  • Pet food and water 
  • Collar with proper identification
  • Medical records/microchip information
  • A carrier or cage
  • Leash
  • Water and food bowls
  • Medications
  • Supplies for a service animal

*This is not an exhaustive list; You may need to include some items not listed here or you may not need every item listed