Hurricane Sandy. #WhatABitch
Growing up in South Florida has more than prepared me for hurricane disasters… I know the drill: board up the windows, get your flashlights and candles in check, stock up on non-perishable food (read: chips and candy) , and lots of wine water. Sadly, my North Eastern counterparts were horribly unprepared for this “Frankenstorm”, leaving many without food, shelter, or a means to pass the power-less time without going insane from boredom.
All jokes aside, Hurricane Sandy was utterly devastating. Taking many lives, costing billions in damages, and leaving the heart of our country in shambles. In an effort to prevent that from happening again, I have provided a quick breakdown of my natural disaster survival necessities. You may also want to check out a slightly more complete list, furnished by the weather channel, here.
1. Water (and booze if you’re of legal age) are key to helping the time pass by, and keeping that thirst quenched.
2. Fun reading. It’s always important to expand your mind and read, and what better time to do so then when you’re stuck inside without power. Light that candle and pick up J.K. Rowling’s newest read, and the hurricane will pass before you know it.
3. Cute rain coats. If you must go outside (which you should try to avoid because it is super dangerous) then you will obviously want to look cute for all of the rescue workers and red cross people (priorities!). Try one of these adorb coats, sure to help you weather any storm. one.two.three
4. Umbrella. Another essential that should only be used in the event of an emergency dog walk, or to quickly dash over to your friend’s apartment across the street. Otherwise, stay inside people!
5. Always keep flashlights and batteries in an easy to find place, because groping around in the dark and breaking your Murano glass vase, is so not acceptable- even in a blackout. Be prepared- extra batteries, multiple flashlights, done.
6. Nom nom nom. Eating is awesome, and since we live in an environment where food is so readily available, that easy food access has us completely spoiled (Americans throw away 30% of the food they buy, sad.). Knowing that bad storms can keep streets and shops closed for days, it is very important to keep an emergency supply of non-perishables in your pantry (and a can opener!) in such an event. I prefer to get through most natural disasters by surviving on neon gummy worms and Doritos, but regardless of your snacking preferences just make sure you have enough food to last at least 3-5 days.
7. Good old-fashioned fun. Just because there’s a raging hurricane outside, the power is out, the stores are closed, and you are freezing, doesn’t mean you can’t have a good time right… err right? Boardgames can definitely help pass the time, and if you want you can combine with hurricane essential #1 and do a board-game-drinking-game.
8. Rainboots. If you must trudge outside at least do it in one of Fall’s hottest colors.
9. Candles, obvious necessity. Consider not buying scented, because 10 candles spewing out noxious notes of vanilla and coconut is definitely not going to help anything.
And finally, I leave you with this; I may joke about drinking a bit, and I certainly have enjoyed my fair share of “hurricane parties”. Though once the skies are clear, pitch in and volunteer with the red cross or any rescue venture, instead of partying away your time off work. Remember, natural disasters are just that, DISASTERS, and it requires copious amounts of time, money, and man-power to pick up the pieces. Do the right thing, and look great doing it.
My thoughts are with all of my loved ones in the North East.
xoxo, S
