With 367 miles of coastline, Texas is no stranger to hurricanes. Preparing your family for severe weather is essential. While it’s most important to follow local, state, and national guidance for evacuation and safety, including having a complete disaster kit, there are a few ways to make your hurricane preparation more sustainable.
If time and resources allow, you can use these tips to enhance your provisions.
Water is one of the most critical parts of hurricane preparedness. Emergency guidelines typically recommend at least one gallon of water per person per day for drinking, plus additional water for cleaning and household needs.
Before the storm, fill reusable water bottles, drink-safe containers, or a large reusable beverage cooler with filtered water. You can also store nondrinking water in clean household items such as buckets, milk jugs, and of course your bathtub. After the storm, if you don’t use all the stored water, avoid pouring it down the drain. Use it to refill pet bowls, water plants, or wash dishes.
Stocking up on food is another key part of hurricane preparation, and small choices can make a big difference. When purchasing canned meat or fish, look for sustainably sourced options. Buying dry goods like cereal, nuts, and dried fruit in bulk can reduce packaging waste.
If you have unopened, shelf-stable food left over after the storm, consider donating it to local disaster relief or community organizations when it’s safe to do so.
When planning to cook without power, propane grills are generally a more sustainable option than charcoal. Before the storm, make your own ice or reusable ice packs to keep food cold in coolers. Once the ice melts, the water can be reused for cleaning.
When it’s time to eat, avoid single-use plates and utensils. Camping dish sets are durable, reusable, and easy to clean.
Speaking of cleaning, make sure you have plenty of washcloths on hand! You will want multiple washcloths for each family member to use for personal hygiene. You will also need dish rags for dishes and general cleaning around the house, so you don’t have to rely on paper towels or disposable wipes.
Staying informed during a hurricane is critical. A hand-crank radio allows you to access emergency broadcasts without relying on disposable batteries.
If you need to board up windows, look around your home or neighborhood for reusable materials such as old lumber or doors. After the storm, store these coverings so they can be reused for future storms.
If evacuation is necessary, remember to turn off your water and power before leaving. This helps conserve resources and can prevent damage while you’re away.
Hurricanes are a part of life along the Texas Gulf Coast, and Texans know how to weather the storm. By making thoughtful, eco-conscious choices during hurricane preparation, we can protect our families while also taking care of the environment we call home.
