Living in Florida, we all know hurricane season is more than just a season; it’s a year-round concern. Officially starting on June 1st and ending November 30th, recent years have shown us just how unpredictable and powerful these storms can be.
In 2024, Hurricanes Helene and Milton made landfall in rapid succession, disrupting transportation, damaging infrastructure, and making food harder to access across our four-county region. These storms served as a strong reminder that preparation can’t wait.
To help you weather whatever this season might bring, here’s a practical, easy-to-follow guide to get your household ready before the next storm hits.
1. Stock Up with a 7-Day Emergency Kit
In the aftermath of a hurricane, your access to power and supplies may be limited for days. Build a storm kit with enough food, water, and essentials to last at least a week. Include items for every member of your household, including your pets!!
Pack items like:
- Shelf-stable proteins (canned chicken or tuna)
- Nut butters and nuts
- Beans (canned or dried)
- Canned fruits and vegetables
- Rice, pasta, grits
- Dried fruits and snack bars
- Manual can openers and paper utensils
- Pet food and any required medications
- Personal hygiene items (soap, toothpaste, etc.)
- Two weeks of prescriptions
- First-aid supplies
- Flashlights, batteries, battery-powered radio
- Phone chargers or power banks
- A generator, if available
This kit isn’t just about food—it’s about staying safe, clean, and connected until things stabilize.
2. Secure Your Important Paperwork
If you ever need to evacuate quickly or file for assistance post-storm, having your essential documents in one waterproof container can make a big difference. Store your IDs, insurance paperwork, medical information, and other critical documents in a portable “go box” to save time and prevent headaches during recovery.
3. Plan for Power Loss
Losing power during a hurricane is common, and when the fridge goes out, so does your food’s safety. Here are a few things to remember:
- Buy extra ice and coolers ahead of the storm.
- The food danger zone is between 40°F and 140°F.
- Discard perishable items (like meat, eggs, or dairy) if they’ve been above 40°F for over two hours.
- A closed fridge can keep food cold for 4 hours; a full freezer holds its temperature for up to 48 hours.
- If you’re unsure if something’s safe: when in doubt, throw it out.
Protecting your food now means avoiding illness later.
4. Prepare for Potential Flooding
Even sealed food can be unsafe if floodwaters reach your pantry. Take steps before the storm:
- Move food to higher shelves to protect it.
- Discard anything stored in cardboard or non-waterproof containers if it comes into contact with floodwater.
- Disinfect cans or jars that got wet before opening or using.
5. Stay Connected with Reliable Updates
During a storm, accurate and timely information is essential. Stay informed by:
- Signing up for alerts from your local emergency management office
- Following trustworthy news and weather sources
- Keeping a NOAA weather radio on hand
- Calling the USDA Meat & Poultry Hotline (1-888-674-6854) with food safety concerns
We’re Here If You Need Help
If you’re facing food insecurity after a storm, Bread of the Mighty is here for you. We partner with state and local disaster response agencies to ensure we have the resources necessary to efficiently serve the community in times of need. To find food near you, click here.
You can’t stop the storm, but with a bit of preparation, you can protect your family, reduce stress, and stay safe. The best time to prepare is now. Your peace of mind is worth it.
