What You Need to Know Before Hurricane Dorian Hits

With Hurricane Dorian anticipated to hit Florida on Monday, people are scrambling to prepare. If you are in or near the storm’s projected path, you may be stocking up on supplies to protect your family and property. While it is important to prepare for the worst, if Dorian doesn’t hit your area, you may be left with unnecessary supplies. So what should you do with them? Can you just return them? Here’s what you need to know.

Pay Attention to Return Policies

Stores usually publish their return policies, so review the return policy before you make any big purchases that you think you might need to return. Here are the policies of some popular stores:

• Costco – Costco offers a generous return policy. Costco guarantees satisfaction and will refund your purchase price. However, there are a few notable caveats. Electronics are returnable within 90 days of purchase. Costco also doesn’t accept returns on alcohol or cigarettes, so if those are part of your hurricane survival kit, you’ll be stuck with them.
• Target – Target accepts returns on most new, unopened merchandise for 90 days after your purchase. REDcard holders get an extra 30 days to return items.
• Walmart – Walmart’s return policy, most unused merchandise can be returned for 90 days.

Verify with Stores That Return Policies Still Apply

Since hurricanes increase demand for supplies, stores may alter policies to prevent individuals from clearing out too much stock. If you’re thinking of returning your hurricane supplies, you should check with the retailer before your purchase to make sure the published return policy still applies.

If Possible, Donate Unused Food

Grocery stores may destroy the food or water you return. If you can afford to donate unwanted food and water rather than returning it, someone else would probably appreciate your unused supplies.

Think of Other Uses for Items

If you can’t return purchases, you can always try to come up with other uses for them. Food and water you can simply consume. Safety supplies you can save in case of emergency.

What extra steps are you taking to prepare for Hurricane Dorian? Let us know in the comments section below. Stay safe!