These tips and guides will help you prepare. Take the time to read through all of these helpful guidelines so that you can be safe if a storm threatens.

• Refer to a hurricane evacuation map - provided by your local paper or news station. Locate where you live and your evacuation level. Determine if and when you would have to evacuate. REMEMBER: All mobile home residents must evacuate, regardless of location.
• Decide now where you would go if ordered to evacuate (a friend or relative, a hotel or motel, or, as last resorts, to a public shelter or out of the region). REMEMBER: If you are going to leave the area or go to the hotel, you must leave very early. Determine your route and plan to travel as little as necessary.
• Keep handy the telephone numbers of these places as well as a road map of your locality. You may need to take alternative or unfamiliar routes if roads are closed or clogged.
• Check your disaster supplies kit and obtain any items you need.
• Keep your home in good repair. Tack down loose roofing, trim trees, etc.
• Make minor improvements, such as, bracing the gable ends of roofs, needed to make your home safer. Contact a professional, if needed, to inspect your home for structural integrity.
• Make plans and buy materials to protect your home before the storm (window protection such as plywood, plastic sheeting, nails).
• Purchase a battery-powered weather alert radio.
• Listen to NOAA Weather Radio or local radio or TV stations for evacuation instructions. If you advised to evacuate, do so immediately.
• Inventory your property (a videotape or pictures are excellent). Store with insurance and title papers in a safe place and send a copy to a relative out of the area.
• Make sure your address (number) is clearly marked on your home.
• Whether you rent or own, review your insurance policies with your agent now.

Know What Hurricane WATCH and WARNING Mean

• Watch: Hurricane conditions are possible in the specified area of the Watch, usually within 36 hours.
• Warning: Hurricane conditions are expected in the specified area of the Warning, usually within 24 hours.

Disaster Supply Kit

• First-aid kit and essential medications
• Canned food and can opener
• At least three gallons of water per person (one gallon of water per person for at least 3 days; often more is needed.)
• Protective clothing, rainwear and bedding or sleeping bags
• Battery-powered radio, flashlight and extra batteries
• Special items for infants, elderly or disabled family members
• Written instructions for how to turn off gas and water if authorities advise you to do so (Remember, you'll need a professional to turn them back on.)