If a hurricane is likely in your area, you should:

• Monitor your radio or television for weather updates and instructions from public safety officials.
   
• Stay indoors, preferably in a room with few or no windows.
   
• Take your emergency kit and disaster supplies with you if you move from room to room.
   
• If flooding threatens your home, turn off electricity at the main breaker.
   
• If you lose power, turn off all major appliances.
   
• Use flashlights, not candles or kerosene lamps, as your light source.
   
• Avoid using the phone and do not take a bath or shower during the storm.
   
• Fight the temptation to go outside during the “eye of the storm”. There’s only a brief period of calm before hurricane force winds return.
   
• Keep children informed about what’s happening and watch for signs of stress.
   
• Keep animals in their carriers.