How Moms Prepare for Hurricanes

Tips on how to prepare for a hurricane from moms.

If you’ve lived in Hampton Roads for more than a year, chances are you’ve experienced a hurricane or two. As a tradeoff for getting to experience all the amazing history and local sights, we deal with some less than stellar weather here.  With such a high military presence, we have a lot of people in and out. Many who come here haven’t dealt with the extreme winds and rain  that this type of storm will bring. Which leaves people afraid, unsure, and grocery store shelves empty. After talking with some local parents, I’ve compiled a list of the top suggestions on how to prepare for a hurricane was a parent. 

1. Get lots of granola bars and pouches, especially if your kids are picky eaters. If your power goes out, and chicken nuggets are not an option, these sans-preparation substitutes are a good way to get some protein and fruits/veggies into their little tummies!
2. Starbucks instant coffee. If you need a caffeine pick-me-up in the morning and there’s no power, your Keurig can’t help you! 
3. Flashlights – also, solar lights, lanterns, candles. Light sources of any kind! A great one for little ones is glow sticks- you can find these at the Dollar Tree! NOTE: Don’t forget the correct sized batteries!
4. Fill up the car with gas – do this one as soon as you learn of impending adverse weather. The closer to the main event, the busier the stations and more expensive gas will become. If you decide to leave town or get evacuated, you’ll want to be prepared to hit the road ASAP. 
5. Pumping/breastfeeding moms – Make arrangements for you milk stash! Donate to the CHKD Milk Bank if you’ve got a large stash! And an awesome tip from Milky Mama LLC: “Put frozen breast milk in quart bags, submerge the quart bags in water, and freeze. This double freezing method will take days to thaw and will help protect your freezer stash in case of an emergency!”
   
6. Dig out the board games! Or, grab a crossword puzzle/sudoku/etc book. With no power, there’s no WiFi. No TV, iPads, etc. That means old fashioned entertainment. Tic Tac Toe, charades, Monopoly.   

Do you have any other tips? Share in the comments below!