Preparing for Dorian: 11 Things to Get When You Run to the Store for Emergency Hurricane Supplies

As residents prepare for the impacts of Hurricane Dorian, stores are packed and shelves are quickly becoming bare. But in a situation like this, it can be very easy to forget a key item.

Stepping into a supermarket with swarms of people during an emergency event is stressful, and we don't want you to forget any of the essentials.

(MORE: Tracking Hurricane Dorian)

Assuming that you have already gotten your prescription medications, as well as baby and pet supplies, here are 11 other items you won't want to forget, courtesy of the National Hurricane Survival Initiative.

1. Water

The rule of thumb is that you want to have at least one gallon of water, per person, per day for at least three days (Florida's officials are suggesting seven days' worth). Anything less than this puts you in danger of running out at the worst possible time.

2. First Aid Supplies That Aren't Already in Your Kit

When you check your first aid kit, you'll want to make sure you have enough bandages, but there are other important items. Sterile dressing, gauze pads, antiseptic wipes and antibacterial ointment are also crucial in the event of an injury during the storm.

3. Ready-to-Eat Canned Meats, Fruits and Vegetables

Once you lose power, you might also lose your ability to cook meals. Quick and easy canned foods could be a life-saver in an emergency.

4. High-Energy Foods

5. Non-Prescription Drugs

Pain relievers could be very valuable if you get a headache in a noisy shelter, or if you're sore after a lengthy cleanup period. Also, since you might be eating foods that aren't in your everyday diet, think about getting antacids, laxatives and anti-diarrhea medications.

6. Toilet Paper

This goes without saying, but you wouldn't want to run out of toilet paper in the middle of the hurricane if you end up stranded in your home.

7. Battery-Operated Radio, a Flashlight and Batteries

Power outages are likely in the worst of a storm, so you'll want to keep tabs on the latest information. A battery-powered radio could be your lifeline if all other forms of communication fail. Also, for those dark nights, you'll want to have plenty of flashlights around, and stock up on batteries to keep both working throughout the storm.

8. Cash

What happens if your entire town loses power and you can't go to the ATM to get cash for much-needed supplies after the storm? You'll want to make sure you have plenty of cash in hand before this happens.

9. A Map of the Area

In this era of GPS, we have gotten used to glancing at our phones for directions. But if you're in the third day of a power outage and your phones are dead, you'll want a paper map to guide the way if you need to find a shelter or navigate around town.

10. Books and Board Games

Think of all the ways you entertain yourself these days. Most of them require electricity. Think of things you can do to entertain yourself if there's a prolonged power outage and you're stuck inside for days.

11. Comfort Foods (or Drinks)

Let's face it, enduring a prolonged weather event like a hurricane can be draining. It's easy to get frustrated and stir-crazy on day three of being stuck in your home, but it's a little more manageable if you have your favorite food or drink on hand. Just be sure you can still consume it without relying on electricity to prepare it.