Hurricanes are a powerful force of nature that thrives on the oceans where they are born but as they move inland they can be disastrous with heavy rains and winds.

There is no town, city, or country that is safe from the fury of Mother Nature. So the best thing to do is be prepared and these hurricane preparedness tips will help you do just that.

There are some terms you need to know. Flood Watch means a flood is possible in your area. A Flood Warning means flooding is already happening and will soon reach your area. And flash floods can develop within a couple of minutes so anytime you hear this warning you need to take action right away.

Before the storm hits you should:

Monitor your local weather station or news for warnings, watches, and any other important information.

1. Secure any loose patio furniture, garbage cans, gardening equipment and anything else that could get lift and cause damage or come flying through a window.

2. Learn the safest route from where you live to a safe zone. You may not have a lot of time to evacuate which is why it's important to know the route in advance.

3. Decide on a central meeting ground where all family will meet in the event they become separated.

4. You need to have a well stocked first aid kit and emergency kit which would have flashlights, batteries, water, food supplies, and a battery operated radio.

When the flood warning has been issued you need to:

1. Be alert to any signs of flooding and flood waters threatening your home. Don't wait, evacuate right away.

2. Follow evacuation routes that have been established. Do not take other roots that may pose a serious risk.

3. When driving if you are faced with water that is rapidly rising don't try to go through instead turn around and find another route. If you proceed you may be risking your life.

If Heavy Rains Hit you need to:

1. Follow any evacuation orders moving to safe ground immediately.

2. Keep your battery radio tuned to the local station for further evacuation instructions.

3. Never wade into a flooded area. They can be very deceptive. The water could be much deeper than it appear, the ground underneath could be washed away. Never drive or walk on a flooded road.

After The Flood you need to:

1. When it has been deemed safe to return home you will want to examine the structure of your home before entering looking for any collapsing. Watch for snakes and rodents too. they come in with the water.

2. Watch for electrical wires that are live. Make sure the power has been turned off.

3. Begin cleaning up as soon as it is safe to do so. Throw away any contaminated goods, throw away perishable goods. Wash any canned goods that can be salvaged with soap and water.

4. Do not drink the water unless officials have indicated it is safe to do so.

5. If the power goes out you may need to rely on generators and candles but you need to also make sure that you are operating them properly. Do not overload your generator and make sure that you plug individual items into the plug.

6. Do not use charcoal in the house.

7. Try to use flashlights rather than candles as it is a much safer alternative and never leave your candles unattended even for just a little while.

These hurricane preparedness tips will help you stay safe before, during, and after the hurricane.

Terry Fitzroy is a professional writer and reviewer specializing in Hurricane awareness, first aid, and emergency preparedness, . For further information and/or to get your own first aid kit visit http://www.areyouprepared.com

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