Hurricane Season begins June 1st and continues through November 30th. Be prepared for hurricanes. Keep your checklist handy. And, learn about Hurricane Survival.

You should keep the following supplies on hand at all times.

• Emergency light sources, like flashlights, lanterns, candles, and matches. Don't forget a supply of fresh batteries.
• Portable radio and extra batteries.
• First Aid Kit containing bandages, antiseptic, aspirin; plus, any medications that must be taken regularly.
• Baby supplies, such as food, canned milk or formula, disposable diapers, etc.
• Special supplies for elderly or disabled family members.
• Food that doesn't need to be refrigerated or cooked, such as canned meats, vegetables, fruits, juices, etc. Store enough for several days.
• Fresh water stored in non-breakable containers. Plan one quart per person, per day, for drinking.
• Don't forget about your pets. Keep a supply of food (along with any medications that they require) on hand for emergencies.

Monitor weather reports. Even though meteorologists have made improvements in the forecasting and tracking of severe weather, especially hurricanes, there is no way to predict far in advance exactly how a storm will affect an area or when it will hit. This unpredictability makes "begin alert" a vital factor in protecting homes, possessions, and lives.

While trained officials and volunteers create a network to organize and oversee such things as evacuations and storm preparations, the responsibility for keeping in touch with changes in the threat lies with the public. By being aware and staying tuned in to local radio stations and television broadcasts, the general public is able to find out what to do, wen to dit it, and where to go. In addition, 24-hour-a-day storm information can be received from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) weather radio.

Obtain flood-stage data.

Your nearest Weather Service office can supply flood-stage data for area streams and waterways. Find out if your home is subject to storm surge (tidal) flooding.

Determine safety of your home.

If you live near the seashore, plan to relocate during a hurricane emergency/evacuation. If you live in a mobile home, always plan to relocate during a storm. In any case, take steps to better protect your home against hurricane damage. Your local building supply store can offer suggestions for reinforcing your home or mobile home. They can also provide information about specific products, such as storm shutters.

Save all receipts. Such measures to reinforce your home against natural disaster might reduce your insurance premium, or might be tax deductible. Consult your insurance agent or tax accountant for more information.

Inventory your property.

It is always a good idea to keep an updated inventory of your personal property. A complete inventory will help you to obtain insurance settlements and/or tax deductions for losses, if necessary. Inventory checklists can be obtained from your insurance provider. Don't rely upon your memory. List items with complete descriptions, and further document with still photographs or video. Store these and other important insurance papers in waterproof containers or in your safety deposit box.

Review what insurance will cover.

Review your insurance policies and your coverage to avoid misunderstandings later. Purchase flood insurance. Separate policies are needed for protection against wind and flood damage, which people frequently don't realize until too late. Contact a local insurance company for information about homeowner's or renter's policies.

Establish route to safety.

Plan your escape route early. Check for low points and flooding history of your route. Determine the time that it would take to evacuate to a safe area during peak evacuation traffic.

Determine location of nearest shelter.

Check for official shelters nearest your home. Notify your emergency contacts of your whereabouts. Be sure to bring the following items:

• Blankets or sleeping bags.
• Prescription medications.
• Formula, diapers, and special care items for infants.
• Special care items for disabled or elderly persons.
• Emergency contact phone numbers for family and friends.

For more information about hurricane preparedness, survival, and relief, visit the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) website.