Who would have thought in one summer Western Massachusetts would be getting to understand what all of mother nature’s extreme weather felt like. We started June off with tornado’s that wiped out communities around here. We’re still recovering from it. Earlier this week we all felt the devastating earthquake up and down the east coast.
Now, we’re bunkering down for the worst hurricane expected to hit our area in over 25 years. So, while yes they are possible, they are extremely rare. 
They are saying that it’s expected to go up the Connecticut River and not follow the shore line here so we will actually be getting it harder then Eastern MA. Our boat is actually docked in the river and we aren’t going to be able to pull it. We are really nervous because don’t live far from the river either- 5 minutes!
Here’s the problem- I have NO CLUE how to prepare for one of these! I posted on facebook when I first started this posts great tips already started pouring in. I still need your help though. We are expected to go three weeks or more with no power! While I’ll be running around most of the day doing what every I can to prep I would love any and all advice you have! We purchased a generator yesterday so at least we’ll be able to power a few things but one room at most.
What foods are good to stock up on?
What things should get tied down outside?
What toiletries should we stock up on?
Any tips that you’d find helpful?
Holy cow! I have no idea if anything I even recommend would help, I’ve never had to deal with anything besides extreme heat, and even then, I had fans or an A/C. I’d consider a hand held can opener for any food items you may need to open. Toilet paper, lots of bottled water, make sure your flashlights have working batteries and backups, candles/matches/lighters. If you guys plan on staying in one specific area of the house during the storm, perhaps consider things to keep the kid’s somewhat occupied so they can’t pick up on any worry you and John might have. Books, things to color, etc. I’d try and move in any outdoor toys into your garage or storage shed, and your cars, if they both fit. We had a huge hail storm here last fall and a lot of cars got damaged from it, I’m thinking that might come with the crazy rain you may get. Hope you guys stay safe!
I really don’t think it is going to end up being that bad…however, if you feel it necessary to prepare – you should definitely bring in everything that is outside. If the winds get strong enough, things could come thru windows – and that is no fun. Other than that, make sure you have enough water to last for a few days and flashlights if the power goes out. I’m sure you’ll be fine!!
WM
I lived in Florida 10+ years and have plenty of experience with hurricanes…
FILL YOUR VEHICLES WITH FUEL. No one on the news has mentioned this…but if the power is out, the pumps at the gas stations won’t work. Also, GETTING CASH is a good idea, because no electricity means no ATM or banks. Not too many places that will be open will be willing to take checks!
Regarding food: Peanut butter, Jelly, crackers, Canned meats (like tuna/chicken), canned veggies (if you can choke them down) and fruit. Think long-term non-perishable. Pancake mix (you can cook ’em on the grill…with a cast iron skillet. Yes, I’ve done that.).
Also, make sure you have gas for your grill. I’d grab a bag of charcoal, too. Worst comes to worst you can dig a hole in your backyard put coals in it and use the rack from your grill as a grate to cook on.
You should bring anything inside that could become a projectile – think chairs, kids toys, etc. No need to worry about sheds/swing sets. Those are typically sturdy.
You’ll need one gallon of water per person, a 3-day supply is good to have on hand. Keep in mind that if power is out we’ll get assistance from MEMA/FEMA & Gov. Patrick has already declared a state of emergency, which helps to get assets in the right places.
I saw 20 or so NStar trucks being loaded onto the ferry to Nantucket this morning. It’s going to be windy and rainy here on Cape Cod. I’m so sorry that your community is going to be hit with another natural disaster. Hope you and your family make it through okay.
Best,
Emily from Nap Time Is My Time
I’ve never been through a hurricane. I would think that you would need gallons of water, a first aid kit, can goods, a can opener, and blankets.
I ‘m in Maryland and I know exactly what you mean. I’m a bit nervous over here.
I was going to suggest filling your vehicles with gas, but Emily already nailed that one. If you have gas canisters, fill them all. You don’t know how long you might go without being able to use the gas station.
If you’re truly worried about going weeks without power, and hopefully have a way to smoke your meat, smoke it now. That way you don’t have to worry about fresh or frozen meat going bad in the upcoming days. Stash up on charcoal and lighter fluid. You can go months using only a grill as the only source of cooking. We went 2 months without a stove, toaster or microwave during our kitchen remodel and did just fine with the grill. If you can stovetop cook it, you can use the grill or a fire to do the same.
Stock up on books. If you do have any downtime, you won’t have a computer or a tv for recreation. Batteries for radios and other battery powered items as well.
Fill the gas tanks, then grab, Water purification tablets, matches, candles, water jugs, lots of canned foods, a hand held opener, Diapers.. disposable even if you use cloth, if the water becomes contaminated you won’t want to wash your cloth in it! , a camp washer, so you have a way to wash clothes by hand.. you can make one with a bucket and a clean toilet plunger.. a clothesline, to hang dry hand washed clothes.. lots of books,crayons etc to keep the kids busy, and emergency radio, an extra cell phone battery (charged) 4-5 outfits per person, lots of blankets, and a each child’s favorite snuggly.. I would keep it all in a tote in case you have to grab it and head to higher ground! Pack camping gear in your vehicle.. you never know! Can you tell we lived on the Oregon Coast for a long time??! Always prepared for a tsunami! God Bless!!! We are praying for you!!
A set of walkie talkies for you and Hubs with extra batteries would be good too, in case you become separated! I always say better to be prepared then unprepared.. and everything listed can be used later for camping or ?? if it turns out you don’t need any of it! :O)
Sending prayers up for you & your family.
From one mommy blogger to another, just wanted to check in with you. I hope you and your family are well. We made it through over here (Maryland). Just woke up to the house shaking at 3am, but no damages. Take care of yourself!
Hope you faired well through the storm! Here in NYC it ended up being downgraded to a ‘tropical storm’, which really translates too a crappy Monday morning commute, lol.