During heavy storms and hurricanes, electricity may need to be turned off when it is no longer safe to operate the machinery or electrify the power lines in the event of downed wires or electricity poles. For many areas that are dependent on pump houses for water, electricity outages can mean water outages as well.

Handy items for electrical outages:

• Battery operated lanterns and flashlight for each member of the family.
• Portable radio.
• Several sets of extra batteries. Rechargeable batteries are best.
• Non-electric can opener.
• Coolers. One to keep food and another to transport ice.
• Non-perishable Food. A two-week supply is best.
• Mosquito Repellent and mosquito nets.

Handy items for water outages:

• A quart-per-day-per-person of drinking water will keep you alive, but a gallon per day is more realistic. So fill pitchers for drinking water. Plan for more if you have small children for bottles, drinking, cleaning, etc.
• Buckets with water for near your toilet to ensure it can flush properly.
• Hand sanitizer, hand and baby wipes and moist toilettes.
• Disposable (preferably biodegradable) cups, plates, cutlery to save on clean up and washing.