Special Report: Stocking up

County government officials say you must be able to survive for three days on your own without assistance.

7'S Anne Allred has your shopping list for stocking up.

A trip to the grocery store is a must when a storm is coming, but many people don't know how to shop. So 7News hit the grocery aisles with dietitian Melissa Kaplan to see how to properly stock up for a storm.

Kaplan says, "You don't want to go crazy buying too much stuff, just get what you need for three to seven days, and you should be good to go."

She insists that one of the most important storm staples is water.

"You want to make sure you have enough water for 3 to 7 days, and one gallon per person for each day," Kaplan explained.

As for food, keep in mind that the power could go out during or after a storm, so buy things that won't spoil, like canned meats.

"Canned tuna fish, canned chili which is pre-cooked, or canned chicken. Or the good ‘ole Vienna sausages are good options," Kaplan says. "You'll also want to grab snacks for you and your family like granola bars, trail mix or canned fruit."

"Individual serving sizes are really good options for every one in the family."

If you have a baby, stock up on diapers and wipes.

"Make sure you have a week's worth of formula or baby food. And shelf stable milk in case you have to make formula," says Kaplan.

You'll also need antibacterial gels or wipes to help keep your hands clean while handling food.

"Since you might not be able to wash dishes, make sure you get paper plates, plastic utensils, cups, some napkins."

Before the storm, pack your freezer tightly.

"Make sure you pack as much in as you can. The more food you have in freezer the colder and longer the food will stay cold."

And if the power goes out, your refrigerator will hold its temperature for about 4 hours if you don’t open it. After that; starting eating.

"You should start with the food in the fridge first, So consume that food first, then move to the food in the freezer. The meats, the dairy, the cheeses, put that in a cooler with ice," explains Kaplan.

Most importantly, if your food looks or smells like it has gone bad, toss it out.

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