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It's not too late to be prepared ... yet

Here are 10 things you can do to prepare.

By JUDY STARK
Published August 25, 2005

	Projected path Hurricane Guide Ten things you can do to prepare

Tropical Storm Katrina could bring heavy wind and rain through the Tampa Bay area as early as Friday. While not a hurricane, it is a reminder of how quickly storms can develop and threaten the state.

Weather forecasters predict 21 named storms, including nine to 11 hurricanes, could form before hurricane season ends Nov. 30.

Are you ready?

Emergency planners say it's not too late. So, here are 10 things you can do now to prepare:

1. Make your evacuation plans.

Where will you go? The home of a friend or relative, a hotel or a public shelter? Decide now and figure out how you'll get there. You can get online advice at tampabayprepares.org or myflorida.com. You can also find evacuation zones and public shelters at sptimes.com. Note: Public shelters won't take pets and leaving them behind is not recommended. Some hotels will take them, some won't.

2. Eliminate hazards around the house. Trim loose branches from trees. Tack down loose roofing and fencing. Make sure decorative shutters are securely fastened.

3. Prepare window covering. You can buy plywood, cut it to size, drill holes and have it ready to install over your windows and glass doors. Have storm shutters handy if you have them. (Make sure you know where the fasteners are and how to install them.)

4. Prepare to repair. You might lose power, so have plenty of batteries for cordless tools and make sure they're charged up. Get repair supplies: tarps, nails, 2x4s, plywood, duct tape.

5. Get your grill ready. You might have to cook outdoors. For a gas grill, have a full canister of gas and a spare. For a charcoal grill, have plenty of briquettes. Keep matches in a waterproof container, or get a butane lighter. Keep a heavy chain and lock handy so you can secure the grill.

6. Check your phones. Get a land-line phone with a cord because cordless phones won't work if the power is out. Get a cell-phone charger for your car to keep the phone powered.

7. Review your insurance policies. Find your policy and the name, address and phone number of your agent. Understand what's covered and what isn't. (Flood damage, for example, requires additional insurance.)

8. Get a battery-powered weather-alert radio. Stockpile batteries for flashlights and emergency lights. (Candles are a fire hazard.)

9. Create an emergency communications system with family members. Choose one family member outside the area as your primary contact so you need to make only one phone call to keep everyone informed.

10. Inventory your possessions: Write down everything you own, when purchased, prices and find receipts for big-ticket items. Videotape or photograph each room. Take closeups of specific items (appliances, entertainment systems, silver, art). Keep in a safe place.

[Last modified August 26, 2005, 11:14:37]