Hurricane Season is here again! What should you do to prepare?

The Atlantic Hurricane Season runs from June 1 through November 30. According to the National Hurricane Center’s website, “History teaches that a lack of hurricane awareness and preparation are common threads among all major hurricane disasters. By knowing your vulnerability and what actions you should take, you can reduce the effects of a hurricane disaster.”

Develop a family plan. Determine the safest areas in your home, as well as the nearest shelters. If you have pets, make sure the shelter allows them. Have a pre-arranged meeting place in case of separation, and designate one out-of-state person as the point of contact for everyone.

Trim trees and clear trash/debris around your home BEFORE a hurricane watch or warning is announced. After a watch or warning, do not leave trash at the curb. Miami-Dade County Solid Waste Department suspends pick-up service, but drop off sites will remain open as long as weather permits.

Secure your home. Make sure that your hurricane shutters are in good repair, and that any hardware or tools you will need are complete and easily accessible. OneStorm.org has a wealth of information on preparing your property to withstand hurricane force winds.

Stock emergency supplies and non-perishables. Download this handy checklist from Publix to use as a guide. Make sure that all prescription medicines have been refilled, and that you have a back-up plan for storing them in case of extended power outages.

Keep your car topped off with gasoline throughout the season. As a hurricane approaches, the lines at the stations will be long. And after the storm passes, there may not be power to pump the gas.

And to stay up to date on all advisories before, during and after a storm, use a NOAA weather radio. You can also try NOAA’s new Twitter service for advance alerts.