Preparation key to hurricane survival Published June 2, 2006 By Tech. Sgt. Kenneth Robinson 334th Fighter Squadron SEYMOUR JOHNSON AIR FORCE BASE, N.C. (AFPN) -- Last year the United States was traumatized during what many thought to be a routine natural disaster. Hurricane Katrina hit the shores of the Gulf Coast, from Louisiana to Alabama. Most people who live or grew up in that region are used to the hurricane season and didn't expect 2005 to be any different than before. They were in for a surprise. Hurricane Katrina left thousands homeless. Many people who had to relocate were not prepared. For me and my family who lived in Biloxi and New Orleans, here are some of the things we had to consider and what we wish we would have had done better. What do you pack when you are trying to fit your entire house into a minivan? That’s a hard decision when it's a matter of necessities versus wants. You want to take everything but that is unlikely. There are some things, though, that you have to have. Speaking from experience, it would have made this event a lot easier if we were just more prepared. When a hurricane hits there is really no exact way to tell how much or what kind of damage it will do, so keep your list of items to the bare essentials first and then the "nice to haves."Basic needs are food, water, shelter, clothing and medical needs. For food, prepare a week's worth of supplies and think as if you were going camping. You want to bring items that will last, are not bulky and don't require refrigeration. Canned goods are a good choice, and Meals, Ready to Eat are a great option. You must have water to drink, cook, bathe and clean wounds, if necessary. Bottled water by the case or gallon jugs are convenient.Shelter is a necessity. If you own a vehicle that is large enough to sleep that is a good option. A tent and sleeping bags would be the next best thing. It is easier to find a place to camp versus trying to find a hotel or lodging facility. When it comes to clothes, you should have items that are loose-fitting and that can be layered. Also, when packing clothes for a hurricane, be practical. You want clothes that will keep you warm even when they’re wet, like wool, fleece or GORE-TEX. Plus, they dry quickly. As for medical needs, a simple roadside kit should work unless you have special needs. Ensure you bring adequate supplies. My mother-in-law is a diabetic and she lost all of her insulin in the flooding. Unfortunately, insulin is not normally stocked at emergency medical stations. Other things to take into account are the after-effects of storms. There will most likely be power outages and shortages of basic supplies like fuel. So stock up beforehand; fuel cans and a small generator are an advantage if they fit in your vehicle. Most shelters won't accept animals due to health codes. If you have pets, plan on leaving the area early to ensure you have adequate facilities to house them. Communication is a must during an emergency crisis. Have a cell phone and extra batteries with chargers. Consider using backpacks instead of luggage. It is easier to carry such things as a flashlight, matches, quick food and water close to you. These are just a few things that could help you and your family in a natural disaster like a hurricane. The best prevention is to leave early and get to a higher, safer area. Have a plan ready.