With Tropical Storm Gustav churning the Caribbean and the images of Hurricane Katrina still fresh in every one’s mind, I thought I’d take a moment and pass on some hurricane safety tips. I have lived along the coast, be it east, south, gulf or west for nearly 90% of my life. I have been through 4 hurricanes and countless tropical storms. The dangers from these storms are real. Very real. Please make preparations now if you live anywhere along the gulf coast.

Hurricane Safety Guide and Tips

• - Plan a safe evacuation route that will take you inland away from the storm surge. Look for alternative routes out of your area as many of the main routes will more than likely be backed up with traffic

• - If you decide to stay in your home and ride out the storm be sure to keep disaster supplies on hand and stocked. Be sure that your supplies include flashlights with extra batteries, battery-operated radio, first-aid kit, nonperishable food and bottled water, non electric can opener, all of your needed prescription medications are refilled, store important documents in water proof safes, paper plates and utensils.

• - Be sure that you have a readily available set of work tools

• - Each vehicle should have a full tank of fuel

• - If you own pets be sure to put all of their important papers in the safe, stock up on food and treats, ensure that you have collars, pet tags and leashes

• - Board up all windows on your home

• - Get rid of any dead branches on any trees around your house

• - Bring inside any objects on your front of back lawns that are not securely anchored into the ground

• - Turn the temperature setting on your fridge and freezer to the coldest possible, this will give your food a little bit of extra life should you lose power for an extended period of time

• - Turn off all natural gas pipes until after the storm has passed

Hurricanes are extremely unpredictable storms. If you live anywhere along the coast be sure to check the tropical updates daily. If you have any questions for someone who’s been through several hurricane just ask. I’m here to help!