Hurricane Ready

"HURRICANE, n. An atmospheric demonstration once very common but now generally abandoned for the tornado and cyclone. The hurricane is still in popular use in the West Indies and is preferred by certain old-fashioned sea-captains."
Ambrose Bierce (1842 - 1914), The Devil's Dictionary

As I write this Florida is anticipating Hurricane Fay and the media is filled with advice for residents. Here is what Florida officials in Pinellas County are saying...

• Residents were advised to find their evacuation zone and make preparations in the case an evacuation is called.


• Residents with special needs can call their local fire departments to arrange for transportation to a special needs shelter.


• Pet owners should pre-register for a pet shelter.


• Initiate your family disaster plan. Refill prescriptions, fill gas tanks, stock up on supplies.


• Get survival kits and important papers ready. Remember to include supplies for infants, children, seniors and pets as part of the planning process.
  
• Prepare homes and yards, gathering materials and tools necessary to shutter windows.


• Begin preparations now.

BOTTOM LINE

Don't wait until a Hurricane is a day away to begin preparations. By that point the stores shelves will be empty and the roads out of town become a traffic jam.