IF A WARNING IS ISSUED

• Follow instructions issued by local officials.

• Fill bathtubs and jugs with water. Figure on using a gallon of water per person per day.

• Turn refrigerator and freezer settings to the coldest levels. Freeze water in plastic containers. If electricity fails, you can use the ice to help keep food cold.

• Bring in any outdoor objects that could become projectiles in high winds: mailboxes, garbage cans, lawn furniture and garden tools. Anchor anything that cannot be brought inside. Encourage your neighbors to do the same.

• Install your shutters or cover all your windows and doors. Install braces on your garage doors if they do not meet the current building code.

• Keep all windows closed during the storm.

• Disconnect natural gas to individual appliances at the supply valves near each unit. Do not turn off the main gas line. Disconnect propane gas to individual appliances as well.

• Remove external antennas.

• Remove valuable pictures and bric-a-brac from walls.

• Wedge sliding glass doors with a bar.

• Draw drapes and blinds.

• Turn off electricity to the pool and cover the pump equipment with waterproof material. Remove and store child safety fences.

• Gather your hurricane kit and stay in your safe room. Essentials for the room include your hurricane kit, sturdy shoes, something to cover your head such as a pillow or mattress and a fire extinguisher.

MOBILE HOMES

• Mobile homes are particularly vulnerable so they should be evacuated in advance of any tropical storm or hurricane.

• Bring in all outdoor objects.

• Lower all awnings. Shutter or board windows and doors.

• When a hurricane warning is issued, evacuate. Go to the home of a friend or family member or evacuation center.

HIGH-RISES

• Residents of high-rise apartments should know that winds are stronger at higher elevations. Glass doors and windows may blow out of their casings and weaken the structure.

• If you live in an evacuation area, you'll have to leave when the order is given.

• If you live outside the evacuation area, seek shelter between the third and 10th floors to keep you safe from the storm surge and high winds.

• Know the location of all exit stairways. Count the number of steps and direction to the closest exit in case the lights in the hallway aren't operating.

• Don't use the elevator.

• Decide where the family will meet if you are separated.

• Bring in all loose items from the patio or balcony. Close and lock all windows, sliding glass doors and shutters.

• If you are renting, make sure you know what the owner is responsible for, such as putting up shutters.

• Building managers or condo associations should organize a group of responsible residents to develop a plan to secure the grounds.

• Set up guidelines for storing cars and boats.

• Condominium or high-rise building boards should find out if their buildings have back-up generators.

• Elevator cars should be stopped at the top of the shaft so that they are less likely to be damaged by water or debris.