Rotating Hurricane Supplies: Why is it Important to Switch Out Your Emergency Kit?

As a resident of south Florida, I've weathered numerous hurricanes. Hurricanes like Katrina and Wilma created extensive damage and left many Florida residents without electricity for days. At the beginning of every hurricane season, we're reminded to stock up and given a supply list to check off. But it's important to remember that most of those items eventually expire, and that you need to verify that your supplies are fresh and in working order. Some of the items you should be rotating on a regular basis include gasoline, batteries, cooking fuels, water and canned foods.

Local regulations restrict where and how gas can be stored, so it's important to check with your local municipality. Generally no more than 25 gallons of gas can be stored at any given residence and it must be stored in approved 5 gallon canisters. Do not fill canisters more than 95% full to allow for heat expansion; otherwise you may be faced with leaking gas or fumes. Gasoline should not be stored in the sun, near a water heater, a central heating/cooling system, or any other source of heat and more than 50 ft away from any ignition source like a pilot light or electric motor.

Unfortunately, the additives in clean burning fuel can cause gasoline to deteriorate in as little as a month. Diesel fairs a little better, lasting 3 to 6 months. Temperatures above 80 degrees can cause gasoline to degenerate faster. Fuel stabilizers can extend the storage life of gas, however, reconditioned fuel is not recommended for fuel injected vehicles. Dealing with a state of emergency is difficult enough without the added trouble of your car or generator breaking down. Rotate your gas supply throughout the season.
Like gasoline, batteries are subject to chemical changes that can diminish its effectiveness. However, if stored correctly premium alkaline batteries can last from 3 to 7 years. Batteries should be stored in their original packaging which prevents the terminals from coming in contact with one another and stimulating chemical reactions. For similar reasons, you should also remove batteries from any electronic devices that will not be used for the next 30 days.

Batteries should also be stored in a cool, dry place. Optimal temperatures are between 32 and 50 degrees. However, manufacturers like Kodak and Duracell do not recommend refrigerating them. Refrigerated batteries must be warmed to room temperature before than can be used (not practical in a state of emergency) and the extreme changes in temperature can actually shorten the life of your batteries.

Without electricity, cooking also becomes an obstacle. There are a number of options, but all require special attention.

Charcoal is probably the safest to store, however, it must be kept cool, dry and in an air tight container. Damp charcoal will not light effectively and a bag of charcoal left open since last hurricane season with probably burn to fast to cook food properly since air causes the solvent to evaporate. Charcoal should never be used indoors as it produces a poisonous gas known as carbon monoxide.

Sterno fuel is another non-explosive option and sterno stoves, usually found where ever camping gear is sold, can sell for under $10. However, individual cans of sterno fuel (about the size of a tuna can) can be expensive. Even tightly sealed, sterno fuel evaporates over time and should be checked every 6 to 8 months, which means you should invest in a fresh supply at the beginning of every hurricane season. Sterno is safe enough to use indoors, which makes a good choice during inclement weather.

Kerosene is another option for indoor cooking. It does not produce poisonous gas; however, it does consume oxygen so proper ventilation is required. Kerosene is more difficult to store, and should never be put into metal containers because its corrosive properties.

Coleman stoves are very popular, but like sternos, the fuel evaporates even in tightly sealed containers. Unlike sternos and kerosene, Coleman gas should never be used inside, since it produces significant amounts of carbon monoxide. Coleman gas is highly flammable, and therefore, should never be stored in house.
Propane is the most versatile with no known expiration and the ability to be used inside or out. However, since it does consume oxygen, proper ventilation is required.

Water is another vital supply after a hurricane. Public water supplies can become contaminated. FEMA recommends one gallon of water per person per day, and you should stock enough emergency supplies to last at least four days. Bottling your own tap water before a storm is fine in most cases, and will last up to six months under optimal conditions. Although the FDA has not established an expiration date for bottled water, the taste and odor will eventually be affected by the packaging. The expiration dates found on bottled water have been added to comply with local regulations on food and beverage, but I find it's easier to replace my water supply at the end of each season, to ensure the water will taste and smell fresh when needed.

Finally, make sure to check the expiration date of canned foods. Some maybe dated for as long as two years, and generally maintain their safety and nutritional value long after the expiration date. Expired canned foods will suffer from a change in color and texture, however. For safety reasons, always avoid cans with bulging ends or leaks. It's a good idea to rotate all of your emergency canned foods into the household groceries at the end of the season and restock in the spring. When purchasing canned goods, make sure the expiration extends to the end of the season so you're not faced with any unexpected surprises.

With any luck, you'll slide through the hurricane season unscathed. But, if a natural disaster should happen to disrupt your community, you'll be glad you have fresh supplies.