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Preparing for a hurricane is a two-part process.
First, you’ll take steps to protect your home and property from the storm, while also making sure you have enough food, water, and medical supplies.
And then there’s the second part… the clean up.
Whether you’re going through your first or 21st hurricane, each one can be very different in how it affects your home.
And that’s what makes hurricane recovery supplies so important.
You’ll need to be ready to combat flooding and water damage. If you’ve got trees on your property, you’ll want to be ready to remove those that have been knocked down by the hurricane. And of course, you’ll need to be prepared to remove debris.
This checklist provides a list of items you’ll need to help you recover after a hurricane.
I strongly suggest you purchase items before you need them.
Most of these items sell out locally and online when a hurricane is announced. And don’t count on being able to order much of anything after a major hurricane. Mail and delivery systems may be down for a while, and items will likely still be sold out.
Wet Dry Vacuum
A wet dry vacuum is perfect for cleaning up residual water from flooding. If you have basement or attic space that floods, or if you anticipate a roof leak, you’ll definitely want to have one after a hurricane.
Wet Dry Vacuums
Dehumidifier
If water has seeped in or you’ve experienced flooding, a dehumidifier is necessary for removing moisture.
ALORAIR Crawlspace Dehumidifier – Model HD55
AlorAir is a damage restoration company, with a focus on flood restoration. Their dehumidifiers are bar none when it comes to handling excess moisture and humidity in home, industrial and commercial settings. This portable dehumidifier covers up to 1200 square feet and manages up to 113 pints of water.
ALORAIR LGR Industrial Commercial Dehumidifier
This compact commercial dehumidifier is specifically made for flood restoration in up to 2300 square feet. It removes up to 180 pints of water per day, and it contains a pump and 19.6 foot hose that can be set outside of a window to automatically get rid of excess water.
Heavy Duty Air Blower
Using a dehumidifier with a fan will speed up the drying process in your space.
DEWALT 3/4 HP Air Mover
This high airflow blower is perfect for carpet drying, mold remediation, and water damage restoration. There are 3 speed adjustments and 2-angle blowing directions, allowing you to point towards the ceiling, floor or walls. Combine this air mover with an AlorAir dehumidifier to amp up your drying efforts.
Disinfectant
Prevents mold and mildew, but should only be used on non-porous surfaces that have gotten . wet during the hurricane.
Bioesque Botanical Disinfectant Solution
This is a heavy duty disinfectant that kills 99.9% of bacteria, viruses, mold and fungi. Kills 99.9% of mold and fungi in 3 minutes, 99.9% of viruses in 4 minutes (including coronavirus and flu), and 99.9% of bacteria in 3 minutes. No rinsing is required, and it CAN be used on food surfaces. We recommend that you use this in addition to a dehumidifier and a heavy duty air blower (see above) to prevent mold and fungus, if your home has flooded during a hurricane.
Heavy Duty Latex Gloves
Should be used when cleaning up, especially with bleach or disinfectant.
ROYAKI Chemical Resistant Latex Gloves
Perfect for cleaning with disinfectants, or cleaning up after flooding.
Work Gloves
Sturdy work gloves can be used to move debris after the hurricane. They will help protect your hands from being cut by glass, wood or nails that are often hidden among debris.
HANDLANDY Work Gloves
These gloves are stretchable and breathable, with padded palms and knuckles. Plus they have touchscreen fingers, so you don’t need to remove the gloves when using your phone.
Heavy Duty Plastic Trash Bags
Heavy duty bags are ideal for removing debris. The most puncture resistant bags I’ve come across are at least 3 mil thick. Contractors use these bags, so they tend to be the most reliable when it comes to bagging sharp or hazardous items.
Hefty Load & Carry Heavy Duty Contractor Large Trash Bags
These bags have a handle, allowing you to hold and load them comfortably. 42 gallons, 3 mil – 26 count.
Axe / Chainsaw
May be necessary for removing fallen trees.
1844 Helko Werk Germany Traditional Bavarian Woodworker Axe
If you’re looking for a no-nonsense axe that you’ll literally be able to pass down to your offspring, this heavy duty felling axe fits the bill. It stays sharp MUCH longer than cheaper axes, which will help you keep your sanity after a hurricane cleanup. It’s pricier than your average axe, but very much worth it.
CRAFTSMAN V20 Cordless Chainsaw
Cordless is always a better option for smaller fallen trees. This one cuts logs up to 10 inches thick.
Husqvarna 460 Rancher Gas Powered Chainsaw
This one has great horsepower, while still being fairly lightweight. Husqvarna is a name you can trust for tough tree cutting jobs, and this one is reviewed highly for hurricane affected tree removal.
Clothesline & Clips
Use a clothesline to hang wet items when an electric dryer isn’t available. This is usually really helpful for drying towels that have been used during the cleanup.
Retractable Portable Clothesline
Perfect for hanging t-shirts, socks, underwear and socks when the electricity is out. Comes with a clothesline and clips.
GISSAR Clothes Drying Rack
This 63 inch rack can be set up indoors or out. Easy to store and lightweight, yet sturdy.