Pro - Active Steps To Take As A Hurricane Approaches

Science hasn't figured out a viable way to neutralize hurricanes, so it is in your best interest to be ready.   And while hurricanes rarely score a direct hit on the Delaware Valley (notwithstanding last month's Irene), even a skirting blow can cause flooding, wind damage, electrical outages and property damage.  Developing a household disaster plan can alleviate anxiety during a highly stressful time.  These tips can help.
Remote destination identification
Identify where you will go if you're given an order to evacuate.  Ask family or friends outside the impacted area for permission to lodge with them until the storm passes.  You can also consider renting a hotel room or staying at an official shelter.  Because roads may be impassable, microwave relay towers damaged and electricity out, have maps ready to help you navigate to your destination.  Keep phone numbers of your destination handy.
Designate a distant "family contact."
Often after a disaster hits, long distance is more available than local calling, even with cell phones.  Ask a friend in a far-away location to act as a family contact.  You call him to let him know your status, and your extended family can call him to find out your latest.  Make sure that extended family members have your contact's phone number.
Hold a family meeting
Convene your family and discuss the reasons behind disaster preparation.  Explain to young children the dangers that fire, severe weather and earthquakes pose, and the need to evacuate.  Don't scare them, emphasizing the "better safe than sorry" truism.  Share responsibilities and allocate preparation tasks as the hurricane nears.  Plan how to care for your pets.
Locate important papers/documents
Gather birth certificates, insurance policies, proof of residence, social security cards, drivers licinses, tax records, marriage and birth certificates, wills, deeds and photographs of your house.  Place them in waterproof sleeves or storage bags.  Take them with you when you evacuate, or keep them in an elevated spot (to avoid flooding damage) if you stay.
Verify your hurricane survival kit is up-to-date
A hurricane survival kit should contain five primary components : water and non-perishable food for the family for at least three days, first aid supplies, clothing and bedding, and tools and emergency supplies.  Each family member should be allocated a gallon of water per day, with half reserved for drinking and half reserved for other purposes.  The water should be kept in plastic containers.
Have a portable, battery-powered radio, flashlight, extra batteries, writing utensils and can opener readily available.  Keep other items you would most likely need during an evacuation in an easy-to-carry container (e.g. covered trash container, a camping backpack, duffle bag, or plastic, lidded storage box).  The National Hurricane Center provides a detailed list on its website (http://hurricanesafety.org/prepare/)
Minimize electrical, chemical and fire risks
Survey your home and remove those risks that could further damage your property during a hurricane.  Unplug non-essential electronics.  Remove and gather extension cords.  If possible, shut down circuit breakers. Move hazardous chemicals and flammable materials away from heat sources.  Discard used rags and newspapers.  Seal combustible materials in cans or jars.  Place up high, if possible.
Miscellaneous tasks
These last few recommendations may seem obvious, but are often overlooked in the haste of evacuation.

• Get to the bank or ATM and supply yourself with cash, early.  A rush by evacuees can empty ATM reservoirs.  Banks can close early.  Retail credit and debit card systems can go down during severe weather.
• Keep your car's gas tank filled.  The rush of evacuees can cause long lines at gas stations, delaying evacuation, and can even empty pumps.
• If your home is in direct line of the hurricane, buy 5/8" marine plywood and board up your windows.  Taping the windows won't prevent them from breaking.
• Turn your refrigerator and freezer to their coldest settings so that food will last longer should the power go out.  If possible, stock both compartments.  Storing more food in the box and refraining from frequent openings sustains the cold longer.
• Fill your bathtubs ---- and other large containers ----- to make sure you have a supply of water for cleaning and toilet flushing.  This is in addition to your supply of drinking water. 
• Any outdoor property that could be swept into the air, becoming a projectile, should be gathered, stored and secured.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and FEMA offer two thorough hurricane preparedness checklists that you can access to further ensure your safety.