GREENSBORO, N.C. - Right now there are a few steps you can take to help prep your kitchen for the storm starting with cooking up a few foods you might want if your power goes out and you can't cook.
Boiled eggs are a cheap easy way to get protein and they last a long time in the fridge.
Also bake up a bunch of plain chicken breasts. Dice it up. You can mix it in different seasons later so you don't get tired of eating the same thing.
For a side fresh fruit or canned veggies are your best bet, but make sure to get a old fashioned can opener. The fancy electric one won't work if the power's out.
As much as you want comfort food after a storm, healthier stuff is the better option because it's lower in salt and sugar. Both of those can make you thirsty which is not a good thing when water and ice is scarce.
That also means avoid processed foods like chips and jerky. You also want to avoid alcohol because it dehydrates you and you need to keep a clear head in case of an emergency situation or you have to drive someone to the hospital for medical attention.
Some people who've been through a hurricane also tell me there's nothing like a familiar cup of coffee to make everything seem okay. So make sure to brew some up ahead of time.
And make sure to do the dishes now because you don't want to deal with a gross smelly mess later on top of the storm.