Hurricane season doesn’t wait for anyone. When the alerts start rolling in, you don’t want to be scrambling through drawers for batteries or Googling whether canned beans expire. You need a plan—and you need it fast. That’s where hurricane preparedness checklists come in. They’re not just some emergency services buzzword—they’re your personal roadmap to staying safe, informed, and ready for whatever hits.
Whether you’re stocking up ahead of the season or reacting to a sudden storm watch, this guide breaks down what to include, how to use printable lists, and where to grab checklists trusted by FEMA, Red Cross, and emergency planners across the U.S.
Why Hurricane Preparedness Checklists Matter
Let’s be real—when things get intense, no one remembers everything. Stress scrambles memory. Time disappears. Power cuts off. A good checklist makes sure nothing important slips through the cracks, especially when seconds count.
A hurricane preparedness checklist gives you:
- A clear action plan when your brain’s in overdrive
- A shared tool your whole family can follow
- A way to prep in phases—from days ahead to moments before evacuation
Better still, the best ones are printable, visual, and simple enough that kids can help out too.
The Best Printable Hurricane Preparedness Checklists (Free Downloads)
Here are some ready-to-print checklists from official sources. You can download and hang them on the fridge today—no sign-ups or apps needed.
1. FEMA’s Disaster Supplies Checklist
Perfect if you want a full breakdown for home, car, and work kits. Comes in PDF format and includes columns for notes and tracking what you’ve packed.
2. Red Cross Hurricane Safety Checklist
Simple, to the point, and available in English and Spanish. Covers supplies, evacuation steps, and safety basics.
3. Ready.gov Emergency Kit Checklist
Includes general supplies, custom items for pets, and digital versions you can fill in online before printing.
What Should Be on Your Checklist?
You don’t need a bunker to be storm-ready—just the right essentials in the right place. The best hurricane preparedness checklists break down into five categories:
✅ Emergency Supplies
- 3-day supply of water (1 gallon per person per day)
- Non-perishable food
- Flashlights and extra batteries
- First aid kit
- Backup power banks
- Face masks, hand sanitizer, garbage bags
✅ Important Documents
- IDs, insurance policies, prescriptions—stored in a waterproof pouch
- Scanned digital copies in cloud storage or on a USB stick
✅ Home Prep Tasks
- Secure outdoor furniture
- Check and clear gutters
- Install storm shutters or board up windows
- Know how to shut off gas and electricity
✅ Evacuation Readiness
- Full gas tank or charged electric vehicle
- Map of evacuation routes
- List of nearby shelters (including pet-friendly ones)
- Go-bag with essentials
✅ Communication Plan
- Write down contact info for family, friends, and emergency services
- Choose a meeting spot
- Teach family members how to text updates if calls fail
Customizing for Your Family
One size doesn’t fit all. If you have kids, seniors, or pets, your checklist needs to reflect that. Add:
- Baby formula, diapers, or games
- Medications or mobility aids
- Pet food, leashes, and crates
Also think about unique needs—like backup batteries for medical devices or noise-cancelling headphones for sensory-sensitive family members.
Pro Tips for Using Your Hurricane Checklist
- Laminate your list or put it in a plastic sheet for waterproof durability.
- Mark items by priority so you can prep in phases: yellow = nice to have, red = must-have.
- Stick one checklist on the fridge, one in the car, one in your go-bag.
- Review it every 6 months—especially before hurricane season starts.
Beyond Print: Digital Checklists That Work Offline
Some apps and PDF editors let you tick boxes on your phone—even without internet. Great for last-minute packing when printers aren’t an option. Just make sure your phone’s charged and your checklist is saved locally, not just in the cloud.
Be Ready, Not Rushed
Hurricane preparedness checklists are more than paper—they’re peace of mind. With one printed and posted in your home, you’ll stay one step ahead when others are caught off guard. From supplies to evacuation routes, these simple sheets can be the difference between chaos and control.
So don’t wait for the first alert. Print your list now. Check it monthly. Update it after every season. Your future self will thank you.
