Storm supplies to have on hand

WASHINGTON – Whether it’s a mega-storm, a hurricane or a snow storm, there are storm supplies families should always have on hand.

Portable radio, either battery-operated or the hand-crank type. WTOP will be broadcasting throughout the storm. You can listen to WTOP on the radio, online and by app.
Corded telephone. You can hear WTOP on a landline at 202-380-9977.
Fully charged cellphone so you can check WTOP.com.
Extra food. Consider foods that do not require cooking or refrigeration.
Manual can opener.
Water – either bottled from the store, or bottled yourself at home from the tap. Plan on storing at least one gallon per person per day.
Prescription medicines. Fill any you may need ahead of time.
Extra baby supplies — diapers, formula, etc.
First-aid supplies.
Flashlights and extra batteries, not candles.
Extra blankets.
Local maps.
Backup heating supply, such as a generator, fireplace or space heater.
Snow shovel and ice scraper, should there be snow.
Pet food and any pet supplies you may need.
Cash. ATMs and credit card machines may not be working.

Here are a few more tips:

Charge your cellphone.
Check the batteries in your smoke detectors and flashlights.
If you heat your home with propane or fuel oil, make sure you have enough to last a few days.
Make sure your gas tank is full.
Refrain from calling 911 or other emergency services unless it is a true emergency or life-threatening condition.
Set your thermostat a few degrees higher.
Make sure the account information on file with your electric utility is correct. Have the number to your utility handy, should the power go out.
Fill bathtubs with water in advance of severe weather.
Take Halloween decorations down. Even a small pumpkin can do damage to cars and houses if it is picked up by heavy winds or rushing water.
Rake leaves and clean out gutters. Clogged gutters can lead to roofing problems. Many gutter-cleaning crews are working around the clock until the storm hits. While it may be too late to have a professional come out and clean house gutters if you haven’t already made an appointment, you should still attempt to clear them. A professional service may not be able to reach additional homes until a couple of days after the storm.
Generators should never be run inside. They should be located outside, away from windows and doors, so that carbon monoxide fumes don’t seep in. To avoid causing a fire, people should keep hot generators away from anything combustible and let them cool off before trying to refuel them.

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