• Flashlight and extra batteries
• Portable, battery-operated radio and  extra batteries
• First aid kit and manual
• Emergency food and water
• Non-electric can opener
• Essential medicines
• Cash and credit cards
• Sturdy shoes

The Red Cross shelters cannot accept pets, so if you plan to go to public shelter, make other provisions for your pet. Limited space is available at "pet shelters" on high ground, and boarding kennels serve clients on a first-come, first-served basis. Reservations can be made in advance at hotels or motels, but be sure to ask if pets are welcome. Friends and relatives living outside an evacuation area are the best resource.

• Make sure that all family members know how to respond after a hurricane.
• Teach family members how and when to turn off gas, electricity, and water.
• Teach children how and when to call 9-1-1, police, or fire department and which radio station to tune to for emergency information.
• Protect your windows.
• Permanent shutters are the best protection. 
• Trim back dead or weak branches from trees.
• Check into flood insurance. You can find out about the National Flood Insurance Program through your local insurance agent or emergency management office.
• There is normally a 30-day waiting period before a new policy becomes effective. Homeowners polices do not cover damage from the flooding that accompanies a hurricane.

• Develop an emergency communication plan.
• In case family members are separated from one another during a disaster (a real possibility during the day when adults are at work and children are at school), have a plan for getting back together.
• Ask an out-of-state relative or friend to serve as the "family contact." After a disaster, it's often easier to call long distance. Make sure everyone in the family knows the name, address, and phone number of the contact person.