Rain is in the forecast every day this week, reminding us all that hurricane season is here.

And, while we can expect unpredictable amounts of rain, wind and tropical storms… it’s time to ask yourself: Are you prepared if an emergency were to happen?

The Atlantic hurricane season lasts until November. Which means we’re only in the beginning stages – and we’ve already met Arthur, Bertha, Cristobol + Dolly. Thankfully, those felt more like socially-distanced waves.

While only two or three hurricanes will become a Category 3 strength or higher (a.k.a. considered to be major), it's important to be prepared and to have a plan in place. Being prepared means having enough food, water, cash + supplies to last at least three days, maybe longer if you are in a hard-to-reach area and cannot evacuate to a safer location.

So, what should go in your kit? Each kit will depend on you and your families’ personal needs, but here are the essentials:

Water — at least a gallon per person, per day
Non-perishable food
First aid kit
Cash
Prescription medicines + OTC medications
Extra batteries
Generator
Matches in a waterproof container
Basic toiletries
Paper plates, plastic cups + utensils, paper towels
Battery-powered or hand-cranked radio
Sleeping bag or warm blanket for each person
Flashlights or lantern
Whistle to signal for help
Manual can opener
Local maps
Pet and service animal supplies
Baby supplies
Extra pair of eyeglasses or contacts
Change of clothes + raincoat

Other items that are not necessarily essential, but great to keep in your kit:

Gatorade or Pedialyte
Change of clothes for each person
Fire extinguisher
Important documents in a waterproof pouch
Duct tape
Toys, books + games