Experts Forecast “Record Storms”In 2007 (NAPSA)—Experts in tropical storm risk and climatology predict that 2007 may resemble the 2004 and 2005 seasons, when Hurri- canes Rita and Katrinaleft billions of dollars of destruction in their wake. Here’s what you can do to be ready for hurricane season: Getting Ready e Learn community evacuation plans and make sure household plans are in sync. Family safety plans should include a meeting place away from home. Make sure insurance coverage is current. Videotape and list household contents. Protect valued paperwork (e.g., insurance, wills, phone numbers, passports) in water- proof containers. Teach family members how to shut off utilities. Keep flashlights and extra batteries easily accessible. e Prepare an emergency sup- ply kit including: 1.a three-day water supply and nonperishable food 2. a manual can opener 3. paper plates, cups and plastic utensils 4. toiletries, medicine and soap 5. blankets or sleeping bags 6. extra clothing and shoes. When You Evacuate Move outdoor objects indoors or anchor them securely. Leave when authorities suggest evacuation or as soon as possible, to avoid flooded roads and traffic jams. Keep yourcar’s gas tank full. e Turn off gas, power and water. Call a friend or relative and mention where you are going. a ? ce a ll ear When warranted, travel inland, away from low-lying e beaches and the threat of high tide or storm waves. If You’re Unable to Evacuate e Stay inside on the downwind side of the house and away from windows and glass doors. Keep curtains and blinds closed. Take refuge on the lowest level unless flooding occurs. Don’t go outside when winds calm. (You may be in the eye of the storm.) Fill the bathtub with water for use other than drinking water (e.g., flushing the toilet). e Listen for tropical storm and hurricane advisoriesvia local tele- vision and/or radio reports, or on a weatherradio. After a Hurricane Return home only after the authorities say it is safe to do so. If flooding occurred in your yard, do not wade through stand- ing water. Watch out for snakes and poisonousinsects. Do not enter your home if structural damage is apparent. Avoid rooms whereceilings sag from retained water. For more information about preparation for hurricanes and other catastrophes, visit Allstate. com.
