BEING PREPARED

Bring inside, yard items that could become wind-borne. Ask neighbors to do the same. Reinforce the garage door and its tracks with center supports.

Cover all large windows and doors, with shutters; particularly patio doors. Trim trees of extra limbs and branches that may become airborne during afternoon thunderstorms and high winds. all electric power should be turned off at the circuit breakers before the storm hits. If you live in a mobile home when a hurricane is headed your way: Pack up and head to safer sheltering. check your tie downs the system of steel straps and anchors designed to keep the home firmly in place.

Protect your boat from a hurricane. Do not under any reasons attempt to ride out a storm in a boat. Secure all deck gear, radio antennas, outriggers, Bimini tops, side canvases, side curtains, rafts, sails, booms, dinghies and all other objects that could blow away or cause damage.

Arrange for dry-dock space early. Many marinas must be evacuated during a hurricane alert. Estimate the time required to go to the new destination and whether your route will cross the storm's path If your boat is small enough, consider keeping it in your garage It's important for your family to have a plan that includes the proper preparations for such hazards. If ordered to evacuate, do not procrastinate evacuate.

Evacuations during a natural disaster will probably cause massive delays and major congestion along most evacuation routes; the larger the disaster, the greater the probability of traffic jams and extended travel times. In choosing your destination, remember that hotels and other sheltering options are likely to be filled very quickly. Make sure that you fill your car with gas, before you leaving. get cash because if power is out ATM's won't work. Shelters are not designed for comfort and do not usually accept pets.

Shelters are not designed for comfort and do not usually accept pets. Therefore, it's important to find a Pet-Friendly hotel or motel to take up residence.

Click HERE to view Accuweather's Pet Safety Page

As we all have discovered, evacuating a city is not an easy task and most of us choose to stay behind. While staying behind to guard your home and valuables is understandable, it is not a good idea. Your life and the life of your family should be your only concern.

If you are in a low lying area (areas prone to flooding) and there is an approaching storm of intense proportions, leave immediately! More deaths and serious injuries are reported due to individuals not heeding the evacuation warnings.

Mobile homes are definitely on the list of "Get Out"!

No matter how you secure you may strap them down and board up, mobile homes will and have been destroyed. Categories 1 or 2 can cause extensive damage, injuries and even death.