Hurricanes are scary but we have to remain courageous. Install hurricane shutters, anchors for the plywood, and trim tree limbs; this is one way you're certain to get rid of dangling branches and diseased and damaged limbs.

Then, when a hurricane watch is issued:

Listen to NOAA Weather Radio or local radio or TV stations for up-to-date storm information.

Prepare to bring inside any lawn furniture, outdoor decorations or ornaments, trash cans, hanging plants, and anything else that can be picked up by the wind.

Prepare to cover all windows of your home. If shutters have not been installed, use pre-cut plywood as described above. Note: Tape does not prevent windows from breaking, so taping windows is not recommended.

Fill your car’s gas tank.

Recheck manufactured home tie-downs.

Check batteries and stock up on canned food, first aid supplies, drinking water, and medications.

What To Do When A Hurricane WARNING Is Issued
Listen to the advice of local officials, and leave if they tell you to do so.

Complete hurricane preparedness activities. If you are not advised to evacuate, stay indoors, away from windows. Be aware that the calm“eye” is deceptive; the storm is not over. The worst part of the storm will happen once the eye passes over and the winds blow from the opposite direction.

Trees, shrubs, buildings, and other objects damaged by the first winds can be broken or destroyed by the second winds.

Be alert for tornadoes. Tornadoes can happen during a hurricane and after it passes over. Remain indoors, in the center of your home, in a closet or bathroom without windows. Stay away from flood waters. If you come upon a flooded road, turn around and go another way. If you are caught on a flooded road and waters are rising rapidlyaround you, get out of the car and climb to higher ground.

What you do after a hurricane is also important. Continue to listen to the radio or, if available, watch TV for instructions. If you have evacuated return home only when officials advise it is safe. Check your home for damage. And don’t forget, you may need a professional to turn your gas service back on.

For more info go to All Things Emergency Prepared. Hurricanes are never easy to get through but if you are prepared it may not be as bad due to you being prepared ahead of time!