The Tribune

ONCE the hurricane hits, it's important to know what to do. If you live in a coastal evacuation zone, or in a structure which might not be strong, have an evacuation plan. The Bahamas Meteorology Department says: If you must evacuate, shut off electricity and gas; Take your survival kit. Shelters do not provide food, water, bedding or other essential items; Provide for your pet, if necessary. Pets are not allowed in shelters. When a Hurricane Watch is declared, make final preparations and review emergency plans with your family. When a tropical system approaches, listen to your radio or TV for instructions. You can also keep uo-to-date with the latest information by going to The Tribune's website, www.tribune242.com When advised, or if threatened by the conditions in your area, evacuate to sturdy buildings or public shelters and leave areas that may flood. Stay indoors during high winds. You are urged not to go 'sightseeing' during or immediately after a storm, says the meteorology department. You could risk your life as well as the lives of people who may try to help you should you get into trouble. You may also hamper the work of emergency crews. Make whatever telephone calls you need to make, but limit those calls to less than a minute if possible. This is to avoid telephone gridlock and to keep lines open for emergency calls. Overloading circuits reduces the efficiency of the entire phone system. Storms sometimes cause power failures. Here are some actions you should take ahead of time: Freeze some blue-ice packs to help keep food from spoiling. If the power goes off, keep the refrigerator or freezer door closed as long as possible. Food may stay frozen for up to 72 hours in a fully-loaded separate freezer and from 12 to 48 hours in the freezer compartment of a refrigerator-freezer. If your freezer is only partially full, you may wish to reposition the food close together or place a chunk of dry ice on top of the food. In the event of rolling blackouts, make sure that your appliances, computers, and other electronic equipment are turned off and unplugged during the time your area is affected. Met Office: Be prepared BE prepared is the message from the Bahamas Meteorology Department during hurricane season. Here is what they say you should do: Know the warning signals and where shelters are located. Always have a home survival kit ready, with the following basic items: Portable radio; Extra batteries; Flashlight; Candles; Manual can opener; Matches or lighter; First-aid kit and special medications; Five-day supply of non-perishable, ready-to-eat food; Ice chest and blue-ice packs; Containers of water (minimum 2 quarts per person per day); Sleeping bags or blankets; Change of clothing for each family member; Camp stove, lantern, and fuel; Masking tape for windows; Personal hygiene, sanitary supplies, and diapers. Tie down or store all loose objects. Store all propane tanks. Bring all potted plants into the house. Remove and store patio furniture. Throw deck furniture into the pool. Unplug electric appliances you may not need or use. Shutter/board all windows and glass doors. Wedge sliding doors at the top. Assemble insurance documents and place in waterproof containers. Secure elevators on the top floor of your condominium. Fill up the gas tank of your car. Care for pets.