It’s hurricane season again, and my prayers go out to those of you in the zones, please stay safe. While doing so, here are a few tips to help stay prepared with your allergies. We know that heavy rains can make the mildew thrive and that affects allergies, as does the wet wood and damp areas that are left by weather damage. See this article for some tips to help you if you do find yourself with hurricane damage, but here are some things you can do before hand.

Along with your regular safety kit of batteries, flashlights and bottled water, you need to keep extra items on hand if you or a family member suffers from allergies, either environmental or food. Here are some things you will want to have according to the Jackson Health System in Miami:
• At least a two-week supply of medications and medical supplies
• Antibiotics for people whose allergies flare into sinusitis
• Extra prescriptions written by your physician
• A generator for asthma patients who regularly use a nebulizer
• Hydrocortizone cream 1%
• Bleach

Your medical supplies and medications should include prescription and non prescription (just let your doctor know you need to have extra medication; they are usually quite reasonable in doing this). Make sure you have antihistamines and Epipens if you need them. Sometimes pharmacies will be closed for awhile after storm damage, or you may not be able to see your doctor for a refill on what you need, so it is best to stock up. Remember to check expiration dates, though, if you haven’t used your kit in a while.
Keep extra non-perishable safe foods on hand that you or your family members may need if food allergies are a concern. Remember, grocery stores may be closed or roads may not be passable.

If you are evacuating, make sure to take all medications and extra prescriptions with you, as well as some safe foods if you need to.
It seems there is always something else to think about when it comes to allergies. We have it all taken care of at school, at activities, at our offices and we think our homes are absolutely are always ready for us. Here is just one more way to make them that much safer. It’s better to be prepared and never open up that safety case, then to experience a situation where you don’t have necessary things available to you.