As South Floridians, we know how quickly a sunny afternoon can turn into a stormy night during hurricane season. Preparing early can make all the difference, not just for your comfort, but for your safety. Hurricane season starts June 1, and the South Florida Red Cross is urging you to build or refresh your emergency kit so you’re ready for whatever the 2025 season may bring.

A well-stocked emergency kit ensures that you and your loved ones have the essential supplies needed to survive safely for up to one month after a hurricane or other disaster strikes. While every family’s needs are unique, here’s a list of must-have items every Floridian should include:

Basic Supplies:

• Water and non-perishable food: At least one gallon per person per day for at least three days, for drinking and sanitation, if you are evacuating. If you are staying at home, a two-week supply is recommended. Consider stocking your kit with canned goods, protein bars and dried fruit. Don’t forget water and food for your pets too!
• Manual can opener: If your food is canned, you’ll need a way to open it without electricity.
• Flashlights: Power outages are common after storms. Have extra flashlights and plenty of spare batteries.
• First aid kit: Include bandages, antiseptic wipes, adhesive tape, tweezers, pain relievers and any personal medications.
• Battery-powered or hand-crank radio: Preferably one with NOAA Weather Radio alerts to stay informed about weather updates and emergency instructions.
• Fully charged power banks: Keep phones and small electronics charged even if the power is out.
• Multi-purpose tool: Useful for turning off utilities or making quick repairs.

Personal Items:

• Important documents: Store copies of insurance policies, identification, medical records and bank account information safely. Consider saving files digitally or in a waterproof container.
• Cash: ATMs and credit card machines may not work during power outages.
• Personal hygiene items: Toothbrushes, toothpaste, hand sanitizer, moist towelettes and feminine hygiene products.
• Face masks: Protect against dust, mold and contagious illnesses.

Special Considerations:

• Baby supplies: Diapers, wipes, bottles and formula if you have an infant.
• Pet supplies: Food, water, leash, carrier and a photo in case you are separated.
• Prescription medications and medical devices: If someone in your household relies on daily medication or medical equipment, be sure to have a backup supply.

Preparing Your Kit

Gather these items now and keep your emergency kit in an easy-to-carry container like a duffel bag or storage bin. Store it somewhere easily accessible, and be sure all family members know where it is. Check your supplies every six months to replace expired food, water and medications.

Extra Tip for 2025

• Think about your power needs: If you have essential medical devices or live in areas prone to long outages, consider investing in a generator.

Hurricanes don’t wait — and neither should you. Take action now to protect yourself, your loved ones and your community. Being prepared gives you peace of mind, knowing you’re ready for whatever the season brings.

For more tips and resources on hurricane preparedness, visit redcross.org/hurricane.