Hurricane Prep Checklist: 72 Hours Before Landfall

Coastal residents in the US and Canada face overlapping risks: storm surge, prolonged power loss, and evacuation windows measured in hours—not days. Use this checklist 72 hours before expected landfall.

Before the Storm

1. Secure the property — Bring in outdoor furniture, trim loose branches, and clear drains.
2. Water supply — Store at least 1 gallon (4 L) per person per day for three days. Fill bathtubs and collapsible containers.
3. Power readiness — Charge phones, power banks, and test your NOAA weather radio.
4. Documents — Photograph insurance policies; store copies in a waterproof document pouch.

Evacuation Planning

• Know your evacuation zone (US: ready.gov; Canada: provincial emergency sites).
• Do not wait for mandatory orders if you are in a storm surge zone.
• Stage a 72-hour go-bag with medications, N95 masks, cash, and pet supplies.

Supplies to Have on Hand

After Landfall

• Avoid downed power lines and floodwater (contamination + hidden hazards).
• Run generators outdoors only, away from windows.
• Document damage with photos before cleanup for insurance claims.

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PrepareReady — independent emergency preparedness guides for US & Canada.