Storm Comin'

Matthew is out there churning away.
We will most likely be spared the brunt of his wrath,
but it always pays to be cautious.
It's unusual to have a storm this strong at this time of year,
but we must be vigilant through the month of November,
when hurricane season is officially over.
I'm reposting a relevant article about storm preparedness
as we get ready to hunker down.
We've got the ice maker filled to capacity,
batteries and phones charged, gas tanks full.
We'll fill the bathtubs with water if necessary,
and be working this morning to remove any outdoor items
that could get picked up in the winds.  
This article applies whether you have hurricanes, 
tornadoes, or ice storms.

Having survived Hurricane Andrew in 1992,

I know first-hand the devastation and upheaval

that these storms can cause.  My world was turned

upside-down when I lost my apartment

and most of my belongings.  I literally had nowhere to live,

as available apartments were snatched up all around me

while I was busy working nonstop for 3 or 4 days.

Thankfully, the hospital where I worked

gave employees a cot and a shower

to get through those first shock-filled days.

Almost everyone in my family lost everything

and were forced to start over. 

It's a very humbling experience.

Since we've moved up to Central Florida,
we have felt that storm damage would be less severe
as we are not living on the coast. 
We've noticed that hurricane preparedness here
is not taken as seriously as down south. 
Nonetheless, we will keep our pantry stocked,
our first aid kit up-to-date and
our flashlights and lanterns in working order. 
For those outside of the hurricane zone,
this list would be come in handy in the winter
or during tornado season.
Here are the basic necessities you should have on hand:

Hurricane Supply List

~Water - at least 1 gallon daily per person for 3 to 7 days

~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

~Blankets / Pillows, etc.

~Clothing - seasonal / rain gear/ sturdy shoes

~First Aid Kit / Medicines / Prescription Drugs

~Special Items - for babies and the elderly

~Toiletries / Hygiene items / Moisture wipes

~Flashlight / Batteries

~Radio - Battery operated and NOAA weather radio

~Telephones - Fully charged cell phone with extra battery and a traditional (not cordless) telephone set

~Cash (with some small bills) and Credit Cards - Banks and ATMs may not be available for extended periods

~Keys

~Toys, Books and Games

~Important documents - in a waterproof container or watertight resealable plastic bag

— insurance, medical records, bank account numbers, Social Security card, etc.

~Tools - keep a set with you during the storm

~Vehicle fuel tanks filled

~Pet care items

— proper identification / immunization records / medications

— ample supply of food and water

— a carrier or cage

— muzzle and leash

Our prayers are with all those affected.

 Be safe, y'all.