The National Weather Service issues hurricane advisories as soon as a hurricane appears to be a threat.

Hurricane Watch – a hurricane is possible within 24-36 hours
During a Hurricane Watch:

• Listen to a battery-operated radio or television for hurricane progress reports.
• Check emergency supplies.
• Fuel car and purchase fuel for your generator, if you have one.
• Bring in outdoor objects such as lawn furniture, toys and garden tools. Securely anchor objects that cannot be brought inside.
• Secure buildings by closing and boarding up windows. Permanent shutters are the best protection. A lower-cost approach is to put up plywood panels. Use 1/2-inch plywood--marine plywood is best – cut to fit each window. Remember to mark which board fits which window. Drill holes every 18 inches for screws.
• Remove outside antennas.
• Turn refrigerator and freezer to coldest settings. Open only when absolutely necessary and close quickly.
• To minimize the number of time you open the refrigerator and freezer, post a list of contents on the front.
• Store drinking water in clean bathtubs, jugs and bottles.
• Review evacuation plan.
• Moor boat securely or move it to a designated safe place. Use rope or chain to secure boat to trailer. Use tiedowns to anchor trailer to the ground or house.

Hurricane Warning – a hurricane will hit land within 24 hours
During a Hurricane Warning:

• Constantly listen to a battery-operated radio or television for official instructions.
• If in a mobile home, check tiedowns and evacuate immediately.
• Store valuables and personal papers in a waterproof container on the highest level of your home.
• Avoid elevators.
• Stay inside, away from windows, skylights and glass doors.
• Keep a supply of flashlights and extra batteries handy. Avoid using open flames, such as candles and kerosene lamps, as a source of light.
• If power is lost, turn off major appliances to reduce a power "surge" when electricity is restored.

If Officials Indicate Evacuation is Necessary:

• Leave as soon as possible. Avoid flooded roads and watch for washed-out bridges.
• Secure your home. Unplug appliances, and turn off electricity and the main water valve.
• Tell someone outside the storm area where you are going.
• Bring pre-assembled emergency supplies and warm protective clothing.
• Lock up home and leave.