If the kitchen is the heart of the home, then it’s the most important space to prepare in the face of a storm. With the anticipated Category 2 Hurricane Harvey swiftly approaching Texas, it’s essential to be ready for this and other serious gales, whether or not you reside in the Lone Star State.

According to the National Hurricane Center, the Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 to November 30. While we can’t predict the course Mother Nature will take the rest of the season, we can ready our kitchens for the worst. Don’t wait until it’s too late — get ready today to keep your home and family safe.

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Whether you’re forced to react quickly to a power outage or total evacuation, here are three essential rules for preparing your kitchen now.

1.) Keep your space neat and organized. Before heavy rain starts to fall, wash the dishes and throw away any food set to expire. As tempting as it may be to fill your dining area to the brim with food and water, pack with easy transportation in mind. Store your essential items in plastic bins, bags and coolers that will make it easy to get up and go. Have a flashlight or candles at the ready, too.

2.) Ensure that water and food are secured in a safe interior space, away from doors or windows. According to the Federal Emergency Management Agency, it’s best to store one gallon of water per person, per day. Ideally, consider stocking up on at least a two-week supply for every member of the household. If a hurricane hits, tap water often becomes undrinkable if the power fails at water treatment plants.

Additionally, there should be enough food to keep everyone fed for two weeks’ time.

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Canned meats, fruits and veggies, rice, pasta, and peanut butter, as well as cereals, granola bars, and other no-preparation foods are the way to go.

Plan to accommodate for any special dietary needs of family members, such as diabetes or allergies. Be sure there’s food and water for pets, too.

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3.) Make sure you have proper supplies to ensure safe consumption. Stock up on no-water antibacterial wipes, matches, disposable cutlery, plastic wrap ,and dry ice so that everyone can eat and drink, free from harm.

This Fox News piece is used by permission.

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