It’s officially hurricane season, and the O’Reilly Auto Parts team says now is the time to get what you need – before a storm is on your radar.
First, be prepared to evacuate by ensuring your gas tank is topped off and your vehicle is running well.
- Check your “check engine” light. Get a free diagnosis with O’Reilly VeriScan. It may not be a big repair, and it could be something you can do yourself. If it is a bigger job, it’s better to take care of it now. The O’Reilly team can refer you to a reputable shop nearby, or you can see a list at oreillyauto.com.
- Test your battery. This is another free service at your neighborhood O’Reilly Auto Parts. Don’t get stranded on the side of the road as the rain is pelting down.
- Get new wipers. Speaking of rain, if your windshield wiper blades are leaving streaks or smears, give them a closer look. If they appear cracked, split or if the rubber is flaking, it’s time for a new set. Installation is always free at O’Reilly.
An O’Reilly team member reads a customer’s check engine light warning with O’Reilly VeriScan.
- Prepare for problems. Every large storm brings debris – limbs, nails, and any other number of things that can flatten your tires and leave you stuck. Along with your jack and a spare tire, an inexpensive tire repair kit can give you a lot of peace of mind.
- Extra cell phone chargers and power banks. You could be stuck in traffic for a while. Keep in contact with loved ones by ensuring you have cell phone chargers in your car, as well as fully-charged power banks to back up your cell phone battery.
- Consider a power inverter. An inverter can make the power from your car’s battery available to other electric devices, like a laptop. They come in various sizes and prices, depending on your needs.
If the forecast for your area doesn’t require evacuation, then be sure you’re ready to shelter in place as comfortably as possible.
- Consider a generator. A portable generator can at least power some essentials, like your refrigerator and freezer.
- Have extra generator supplies. If you’re getting a generator, or already have one, remember that it may need some pre-storm maintenance or even require parts during a blackout. Things to think about having on hand include spark plugs, filters and oil. You’ll also need gas cans so you can keep the generator fueled.
- Extension cords. Check your extension cords to ensure they aren’t frayed or worn, and that they’re long enough to keep a generator away from your home so you aren’t breathing in carbon monoxide. Never operate a generator in an enclosed area.
- Small engine supplies. If trees come down on your property, your chainsaw may get some good use. Make sure your chain is sharp and that you have clean air filters as well as bar and chain oil on hand.
- Tarps and straps. You can use tarps and straps to tie down items on your property before a storm. Extra tarps could come in very handy if your roof starts to leak.
- Flashlights and spare batteries. Even if you have a generator, it may not power everything for a long period of time. Having flashlights and fresh batteries is a good idea year-round.
- First aid, bottled water, snacks. Make sure you’re ready with other basic supplies, and pack them along if you have to evacuate.
You can count on your neighborhood O’Reilly store team to open as soon as it’s safe after a storm, offering our everyday low prices even if our stores don’t have power. Prepare now, but rest assured we’ll be there to help if severe weather strikes.
O’Reilly team members unload generators in Houston, Texas, in the aftermath of Hurricane Beryl.