Hurricane season in the Caribbean means you have to be ready at all times. Power lines and water systems could falter, leaving you without water or electricity for several days or more.
For families with babies and toddlers, this also means having a two-week feeding plan packed and ready to go.
Packing enough food is just one factor. Your child also needs access to safe, accessible food that’s quick to prepare during a crisis, providing uninterrupted nutritional support.
Add the following checklist to your hurricane preparedness plan.
How to Build a 14-Day Baby Nutrition Plan
Pack at least two weeks’ worth of supplies, starting with plenty of water. Store at least a gallon of water per person for each day. Make sure your water is factory-sealed for safety, as you’ll need it for mixing baby formula.
The next set of critical items in your two-week hurricane supply kit is shelf-stable nutrition products, such as:
- Powdered and ready-to-feed (RTF) formulas
- Baby food (pouches preferred)
- Energy-rich pantry snacks
These items don’t require refrigeration, but remember to stock up in advance. Don’t stretch formulas with extra water, as this will increase the risk of nutritional deficiencies.
Research sources like Kabrita formula to learn more about shelf-stable goat milk formulas, oat and rice cereals, and multigrain biscuits. These items are made for infancy through the toddler stage, prepared with the right amount of nutrients for each age range.
Since toddlers are a bit older, you can add more items to their kits, like peanut butter and crackers, shelf-stable milks for kids, and dried fruits.
How to Build a “SAFE” Kit for Hurricane Preparedness
Sanitation can become a concern when you’re relying on water storage to wash dishes and supplies. The answer to this problem is a SAFE kit, which stands for sanitation and feeding equipment.
Pack antibacterial dish soaps and scrub brushes, along with unscented liquid bleach for sanitizing. Purchase portable wash basins and sanitize them properly after use.
If water is scarce, pack disposable plateware to minimize dishwashing, but still keep hygiene in mind. Wash your hands, use hand sanitizer, and follow proper waste disposal protocols.
How to Maintain a Feeding Plan During a Power Outage
If the power grid goes down, have a cold storage plan ready.
Keep a well-packed cooler for storing opened formula or breast milk. Use a thermometer to ensure your cooler maintains a temperature of 35°F to 41°F. Prepared baby formulas can last up to 24 hours in these conditions.
If you’re breastfeeding, increase the frequency to maintain production. Pack an electric pump, a manual pump, and use hand expression to boost supply if necessary.
How to Organize Feeding Supplies During a Hurricane
Never store feeding supplies in garages, as they’re likely to get humid and damp. Don’t store supplies in hot cars, as heat can degrade the nutrients in your formula.
Store supplies in a cool, dry area inside your home.
Use the FIFO method, which stands for first in and first out. Label items with purchase dates, and use them in order, so that your emergency stash remains fresh.
How to Pack a “Go-Bag” for Hurricane Season
If you’re ever forced to evacuate during hurricane season, you need a go-bag ready.
This bag will contain your two-week supply of feeding formulas and solids, including water. It should also contain supplies, such as:
- Bottles
- Disposable spoons
- Breast pumps
- Sanitizing wipes
- Baby slings and carriers
Add a surplus of diapers, diaper rash creams, and wipes. Include extra clothes, first-aid kits, and comfort items to soothe babies in times of stress.
Plan for Hurricane Season Now
This checklist is your cue to start planning now.
Prepare a two-week supply of water, formula, and nutritious solids. Pack a SAFE kit and have your go-bag ready.
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