HARTFORD, CT (July 10, 2020)  ― As Tropical Storm Fay makes its way up the east coast, AAA is reminding Connecticut residents to restock storm supply kits, including COVID-19 protection, like masks, gloves and hand sanitizer.

The past few months of the pandemic depleted store shelves and prompted more time at home, a combination that may have had some families turning to their storm kit for needed supplies.

With Tropical Storm Fay on its way and much of hurricane season still ahead, now is the time to take stock of your kit and ensure you have all the items you need, as well as additional items for COVID-19 protection.  

“We have seen what happens when folks wait until an emergency is upon us to stock up on supplies,” says Amy Parmenter, spokesperson for AAA in Greater Hartford. “Don’t wait until a storm or hurricane is making headlines. Stock up in advance so you have everything you need to stay safe and stay home until the threat passes - including personal protective equipment related to COVID-19.”

Although Connecticut is not typically in the eye of most hurricanes, recent memories of the flooding and massive damage done by Hurricane Sandy and Tropical Storm Irene serve as a reminder of the need to take every precaution.

With the need to include COVID-19 protection supplies, the CDC  has revised its guidelines for 2020 hurricane preparedness:

Recommended Hurricane Preparedness Items:

• Water (one gallon per person, per day, for at least three days)
• Three-day supply of non-perishable food
• Flashlight and extra batteries
• First-aid kit
• Adequate supplies of paper towels, toilet paper and sanitizing wipes
• Face masks, gloves, soap and hand sanitizer
• Cell phone, power bank and charger
• Pet food and extra water
• Prescription medications
• A container so you can easily take your items along if you have to evacuate to a shelter or other location

Along with an upgraded hurricane supply kit, ensure you have an emergency plan and that you have communicated it to family members. According to a 2015 FEMA study, 60 percent of Americans do not practice what to do in the event of a natural disaster.

AAA offers these tips on preparing for hurricane season:

• Make a Plan – Develop a family emergency plan to include ways to contact each other, alternative meeting locations, and an out-of-town contact. Identify a safe room or safest areas in your home. Research your evacuation route. Be sure to include plans for your pets.
• Secure Your Home – While you may have used your time in quarantine to do work around the house, it may not have included storm preparedness projects. Inspect your home for minor repairs needed to the roof, windows, downspouts, etc. Trim trees or bushes that could cause damage to your home in the event of high winds. 
• Take Inventory – Update your home inventory by walking through your home with a video camera or smart phone. Keep a record of large purchases, including the cost of the item, date purchased, and model and serial numbers if available.
• Check Your Vehicle – Make sure your vehicle has a full tank of gas, properly inflated tires and wiper blades that are in good condition. Have your vehicle inspected by a certified mechanic to determine if the brakes, fluid levels, air conditioning and belts are in good working condition, especially if your vehicle was idle for long periods of time during quarantine.
• Protect Your Property – Review your homeowner’s insurance coverage with your agent to determine if you have adequate protection. Discuss your deductibles. Be aware that flood insurance is not typically included under your homeowner’s policy. Flooding to your vehicle, however, is available under physical damage coverage.

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