Getting ready for a big storm can take extra time when you have rheumatoid arthritis (RA). And with hurricane season in full swing and it seems the tropics are starting to become more active, it is a good idea to make sure that you are prepared now in case a hurricane should strike your area.  Those of us on the east coast of the United States are used to getting things ready for the hurricane season and there are many things to stock up on. It is important to make sure that you have everything you may need in case you loose power for an extended length of time. Do not wait until the last minute to get ready.

Plan Ahead: Things take longer when your joints are stiff and sore so make sure that you are ready long before the storm is in your path.

Prepare: Put together a Hurricane Supply Kit. Keep the kit in an easy to access location.  Make sure to include:

• Water: You will need 1 gallon of water per person, per day
• Food: You will need non perishable food, make sure to include a non electric can opener and paper plates, cup and plastic utensils
• First Aid Kit: Make sure to include at least a 7 day supply of any prescription medication you may need as well as any adaptive equipment you may need. Remember the extreme changes in barometric pressure in a hurricane are likely to cause swelling in those effected by barometric pressure like me. Some medications require refridgeration, so in addition to making sure you have an ample supply, it might be a good idea to look into a gas powered generator and make sure that you have gas on hand to run it.
• Ice: If you are not directly on the coast and there is no need to evacuate, you may need ice to keep perishables cold. Put a thermometer in the cooler to make sure the temperature does not go above 40 degrees farenheight
• Clothing: Put together some seasonal clothing for you and your family members, remember rain gear and sturdy shoes.
• Flashlight: Several flashlights with plenty of batteries
• Telephone: Make sure that your cell phones are fully charged and you land line has a corded phone plugged into the jack.
• Cash: You may not have access to a bank or ATM for a while so it is a good idea to keep some cash on hand in case you need it.
• Radio: Keep a battery powered radio on hand so you can keep up to date on any news should you loose power.
• Important Documents: Should you need to evacuate, put your important documents in a water-tight plastic zip bag (i.e. insurance cards, medical information, etc…)
• Fuel Vehcle: Make sure that your vehicle is filled up with gas prior to the storm.
• Pets: If you have a pet, make sure that you have plenty of food and water for them as well. Keep an additional leash and/or crate for travel if necessary.
• Blankets/Bedding: Blankets and pillows, etc…
• Escape Plan: Should you need to evacuate, have a plan. Decide ahead of time where you will go and how you plan to get there. Have an alternate location and route marked out as well.

Find help: Call around and find a handyman or neighbor that would be willing to help board up things should a hurricane strike your area.  It is important to ask for help when you need it and things like taping windows or hanging plywood may  be too much especially if you are flaring.