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Hurricane Guide 2006	Hurricane Preparation Guide 2006

Think ahead when making a grocery run

A pantry well-stocked with nutritious, tasty foods can remove some of the stress that comes with hurricanes. Some well-chosen comfort food helps too.

By JANET K. KEELER
Published April 16, 2006

To prepare for a hurricane, you should have at least a seven-day supply of food and drink for each family member.

"At least'' are the important words there. Once a major storm blows through, it may be several days before grocery stores can restock and get back to normal. You'll want to have enough food to keep going until roads are clear and shelves are full.

Here are some guidelines on what to start stockpiling now as well as what to toss in the cart as you make your supermarket run as the storm draws near.

-- Don't buy food your family has never eaten and won't eat after the storm. Kids who refuse soy milk won't drink it just because the power is out.

-- Go easy on salty foods such as pretzels and chips. They make you thirsty.

-- During the four hurricanes of 2004, we learned that people want junk food and comfort food. There was a big run on Twinkies and Little Debbie Swiss Rolls.

-- Look for foods that can be eaten with minimal preparation and without cooking.

-- Think individual portions fruit, pudding and small sizes. They're easier to fit into an ice chest than the giant economy-size, and you won't have to worry about storing leftovers.

-- If you do have a grill, choose items for which grilling is appropriate rather than those that require an oven or range top.

-- Load up your freezer with bagged ice. It will keep the contents cold if the power goes out and can be used in coolers.

-- Don't forget a manual can opener.

Janet K. Keeler can be reached at (727) 893-8586 or krieta@sptimes.com.

Use this checklist to determine what you've got on hand in the pantry. Then take it to the supermarket to finish stocking your hurricane grocery kit. To learn about about hurricane-safe food and drink, see the Q&A on Page 18.

[Last modified April 13, 2006, 16:12:05]