Prepare for Hurricane Season: Essential Tips from Edmondson Restoration

As the Southeast enters another hurricane season, the scars of Hurricane Helene still linger. Families have been displaced, homes destroyed, and communities left reeling. This serves as a stark reminder that storms do more than disrupt lives; they transform them.

That's why May is Hurricane Preparedness Month—a time to take action before the next storm hits. One of the simplest and most powerful ways to protect your family is by assembling a Hurricane Preparedness Kit. In this post, we will guide you through what should be included in your kit, how to customize it for your specific needs, and what steps you can take to safeguard your home against future storms.

Why Every Household Needs a Hurricane Preparedness Kit

Hurricanes are unpredictable. Each year, South Carolina and surrounding areas experience stronger winds, heavier rainfall, and more widespread flooding. The average Atlantic hurricane season now produces between 14 and 21 named storms, with several escalating to major hurricanes.

When power goes out, roads close, or flooding traps you at home, a well-stocked Hurricane Preparedness Kit can make all the difference. It buys you time, provides peace of mind, and could even save lives.

What to Include in Your Hurricane Preparedness Kit

Let's break down the essential items that every Hurricane Preparedness Kit should include. We recommend having enough supplies for at least 72 hours per person.

Water & Food

• 1 gallon of water per person per day for at least 3 days

• Non-perishable food (canned goods, protein bars, peanut butter, dried fruit)

• Manual can opener

• Baby formula and pet food if applicable

  
  

Communication & Power

• Battery-powered or hand-crank radio (NOAA Weather Radio preferred)

• Portable chargers or power banks

• Extra batteries (AA, AAA, etc.)

• Flashlights or LED lanterns

  
  

First Aid & Health Supplies

• Complete first aid kit

• Prescription medications (minimum 7-day supply)

• Hand sanitizer and disinfecting wipes

• Face masks (N95 or cloth)

• Feminine hygiene products

• Glasses, contacts, and hearing aid batteries

  
  

Important Documents & Cash

• Copies of IDs, insurance policies, home deeds, bank account records

• Local maps (in case GPS is down)

• Emergency contact list

• Small amount of cash in small bills

  
  

Tools & Emergency Gear

• Multi-tool or basic toolkit

• Duct tape

• Fire extinguisher

• Waterproof matches or lighters

• Plastic sheeting and zip ties (for temporary shelter)

  
  

Comfort & Personal Items

• Sleeping bags or warm blankets

• Extra clothing, socks, and rain gear

• Books, cards, or board games (especially if you have children)

• Earplugs or sleep masks (to reduce stress in noisy shelters)

  
  

TIP: Store your Hurricane Preparedness Kit in a sturdy, easy-to-carry bin or backpack. Keep it in a cool, dry area that you can access quickly during an evacuation.

Preparing Your Home for Hurricane Season

A Hurricane Preparedness Kit is just part of the plan. You should also take proactive measures to secure your home, especially if you live in hurricane-prone areas like Columbia, Charleston, or the South Carolina coast.

Checklist for Hurricane-Proofing Your Home:

• Inspect and clear gutters to ensure proper drainage.

• Trim trees near your home to prevent broken limbs from causing damage.

• Reinforce garage doors and windows—consider storm shutters or plywood boards.

• Check your sump pump and backup battery.

• Secure outdoor items (like grills, furniture, planters) that could become flying debris.

• Take photos of your home and valuables for insurance claims.

  
  

What to Do When a Hurricane Warning Is Issued

When a hurricane is imminent, every minute counts. Here's how to act quickly and remain safe:

1. Monitor local news or NOAA radio for updates.

2. Fuel your vehicles.

3. Charge your electronics.

4. Move your Hurricane Preparedness Kit near your main exit.

5. Elevate important items if flooding is expected.

6. Evacuate when ordered. Don’t wait—roads can become impassable very quickly.

   
   

Pro Tip: Text SHELTER and your ZIP code to 43362 (FEMA) to find the nearest emergency shelter during a storm.

Hurricane Helene: A Harsh Reminder of What’s at Stake

The devastation of Hurricane Helene demonstrated how critical preparedness truly is. In the aftermath, Edmondson Restoration responded to dozens of emergency calls for water extraction, structural drying, and board-ups. Many families were caught unprepared—without kits, plans, or help.

That doesn’t have to be you this year.

Being proactive today means fewer regrets tomorrow. And if the worst happens, remember that Edmondson Restoration is one call away—day or night.

Create a Hurricane Preparedness Plan for Your Family

Your kit is essential, but planning is just as crucial. Sit down with your household and discuss the following:

• Evacuation routes

• Designated meeting spots if separated

• Emergency contacts

• Medical needs or considerations

• How to shut off utilities (gas, water, electric)

  
  

Print and laminate a copy of your plan. Store one in your kit and another in your vehicle.

Final Thoughts: Prepare Now. Respond Fast. Restore What Matters.

If Hurricane Helene taught us anything, it is that waiting isn’t a strategy. Your Hurricane Preparedness Kit is a small step that can make a significant difference. Take the time now to prepare, communicate, and protect your home.

If damage occurs, trust Edmondson Restoration to handle recovery with care, speed, and professionalism. We specialize in:

• Emergency water extraction

• Storm damage cleanup

• Board-ups and tarping

• Full reconstruction services

  
  

If your home or business experiences storm damage, call Edmondson Restoration at 888-742-3085 or visit www.edmondsonrestoration.com for 24/7 emergency support.