Yes, I know this is about hurricane Katrina and the aftermath, but I am somewhat worried about Rita and the impact it may have on oil production, and the proper steps to otake in this kinda situation.

I am going to be taking in from 4 to 9 people, and power outages, water shortages and other such problems are likely to arise. Are there any foods I need to stockpile? What are proper hygine activities..? Anyone able to help here?

Water above all.

Non-perishable staples and snacks. High carbs and proteins help. (Contrary to what your local FEMA guy says. )

Hopefully you're in a non-flood zone so we don't have to worry about keeping dry.

I live a few miles from the coast, near Houston, so the very worst will be gone by the time it hits us. But it might still be strong enough to rip a few roofs, so i'm trying to prepare for the worst.

So, should I get things like chips, poptarts pretzels.. Snack foods. I have a fair amount of rice and beans (canned) from the 'The Soviets are coming!' phase my parents went through, but I doubt people are going to want to eat that for a few days.

Off topic note: If I recall, Johnny Titor mentioned a civil war in 2005. It seems like whats happening in New Orleans might cause that sort of thing. Plus people are shooting at the national guard, police and military as they go about their business.

Originally posted by Carpenter
Yes, I know this is about hurricane Katrina and the aftermath, but I am somewhat worried about Rita and the impact it may have on oil production, and the proper steps to otake in this kinda situation.

I am going to be taking in from 4 to 9 people, and power outages, water shortages and other such problems are likely to arise. Are there any foods I need to stockpile? What are proper hygine activities..? Anyone able to help here?

Tuna and spaghetti/tins spahetti sauce are the best u should stock up and have vitamins and water of course.

KNOW who you are taking in. Its very kind of you to do this and i would agree water , canned stuff, crackers and stuff like that.

Good luck and thanks.

A spare tank of propane (or extra charcoal for the grill).

Do you have a local Baskin & Robins near by? Some of these have dry ice for sale. If you have one of those good coolers and 5 to 10 lbs of dry ice, you can save everything in your freezer for a week or so.

Ahh, nevermind. Hurricane made a turn and everyone who was gonna show up is safe now. Thanks a million for the advise though.