Slideshow: How to Prepare for a Hurricane

Most people living in hurricane-prone areas know the Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 to Nov. 30 each year. Every year, you hear it: "Prepare early. Buy your hurricane supplies now."With a six-month risk window every year and only a rare storm actually coming ashore in the U.S., it’s easy to get complacent – but don’t. We’re lucky that meteorologists can sometimes predict a hurricane days before it strikes, but that doesn’t mean you should wait until the last minute to get ready.Check out the following slideshow for information on what you can do now to get prepared.[slideshow]

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Hurricane Preparedness Tips: 4 Ways to Waterproof Your Stuff

Taking advantage of the calm before a storm to prepare can help keep you afloat when severe weather strikes.  So, with May 19th kicking off Hurricane Preparedness Week, this might be the time to think about enhancing the basics of your emergency kit (water, food, prescriptions, radio, flashlights, batteries, etc.) with waterproof supplies that can help keep your home and valuables safe and dry, and your family a bit more calm during a big storm.Here are a few of my top picks:Water alarm: Place a battery-operated water alarm anywhere a potential leak or flooding may occur—like near a sump pump, water heater or basement window well—for an alert even when the power fails.Waterproof safe: Keep important documents (mortgage papers, birth certificates, passports, etc.) protected inside a waterproof safe. If your home is damaged from flooding, these documents will be essential in the rebuild.Waterproof cellphone case: Stay connected when it matters most with a waterproof smartphone case that provides full access to all device functions.Space bags: You probably know them for their “space-saving” properties, but these airtight, watertight bags can protect your belongings even when they’re submerged in water.Preparedness is key when it comes to any emergencies – whether hurricane, fire, flood or earthquake. For additional items that should be included in your basic emergency kit, The National Hurricane Center’s checklist is a great place to start.Debbie Hanson is director of external affairs for First Alert, a trusted brand in home safety products.

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