Your annual preparations for the hurricane season should include checking to see that you have a supply of non-perishable food, drinking water containers, candles, waterproof matches, a lantern and fuel, first aid kit, fire extinguisher, battery-powered radio, flashlights, and extra batteries.

A "Hurricane Watch" is issued whenever a hurricane becomes a threat to coastal areas. Everyone in the area covered by the "watch" should listen for further advisories and be prepared to act promptly if a hurricane warning or evacuation order is issued.

Be especially wary of the "eye" of the hurricane. If the storm center passes directly overhead, there will be a lull in the wind lasting from a few minutes to half-an-hour or more. At the other side of the "eye" the winds will increase rapidly to hurricane force, and will come from the opposite direction.

Keep tuned to a local radio or television station for the latest National Weather Service advisories as well as special instructions from local government.

Check battery-powered equipment. Your battery-operated radio could be your only source of information, and flashlights will be needed if utility services are interrupted. Buy extra batteries.

Keep your car fueled should evacuation be necessary. Also, service stations may be inoperable after the storm strikes.

Store drinking water in clean bathtubs, jugs, bottles and cooking utensils as your town's water system may be contaminated or damaged by the storm. Obtain extra prescription medications and medical supplies.

Board up windows or protect them with storm shutters. Windows are broken mainly from wind-driven debris. Wind pressure may break large windows, garage doors and double entry doors. Do not use particle board to board windows as it may disentegrate in the storm.

Secure outdoor objects that might become debris. Garbage can, garden tools, toys, signs, porch furniture, and a number of other harmless items become deadly missiles in hurricane winds. Prior to the storms arrival, go into your yard, look around and ask yourself if I were a hurricane "what could I pick up and blow away?"

Moor your boat securely well before the storm arrives, or move it to a designated safe area early. Do not stay on the boat or you may drown.

If you live inland away from the beaches and low-lying coastal areas, your home is well constructed, and your local authorities have nor called for evacuation in your area, stay home and make emergency preparations.

Be alert for TORNADO WATCHES and WARNINGS as tornadoes are often spawned by hurricanes. Should your area receive a tornado warning, seek shelter immediately in an interior bathroom or small hall, preferably below ground level.

If you must evacuate your home, do not leave your animals behind. At the first hint of a hurricane, evacuate them to a prearranged safe location if they cannot stay with you during the evacuation period. (Red Cross shelters cannot accept pets due to health and safety regulations.) Keep important pet items, food, medications, leashes and carriers in an accessible place. Planning and preparation will enable you to evacuate with your pets quickly and safely. For more information, contact your local Humane Society.