Hurricanes frequently cause power failures, telephone line outages, and other utility problems. The interruption of these services could last for days or even weeks in some areas. You should be prepared for these events. HurricaneAlert.Com provides the following tips to assist you in your preparations. TIPS: Plan an escape route in the event you need to evacuate. Designate a meeting point in case you and family / friends get separated during or after the storm. Do not stay in mobile homes. Do not stay in low-lying areas - flooding is probable. Make sure you have plenty of gasoline in your automobile. Store water in containers Fill bathtubs with water Get together some emergency cash. Make sure you have plenty of food; specifically food that does not need to be refrigerated. Have a stocked first aid kit handy Ready Ice Chests (to store ice; to store frozen goods in event of lengthy power failure) Make sure you have batteries Make sure you have candles Gather all flashlights, batteries, candles, matches . . . make sure they are easily accessible Obtain access to battery powered radio Charge up cellular phones Place your valuables (insurance policies!) in a protected area. For example, top shelf of a closet. Secure outdoor plants; designate an area to keep pets. Secure all your outdoor items that could be blown away. Board or tape windows. Use shutters if you can. Make ready a deck of cards, board games, a jigsaw puzzle, and a good book. Web page design and hosting by Site One on the Internet. Copyright©1998-2005.