To get your home ready for a hurricane:

• Trim trees and bushes BEFORE a hurricane threatens. Make sure you have time to dispose of all cut branches, because they can become
  projectiles in a storm. TRASH COLLECTION IS NORMALLY SUSPENDED RIGHT BEFORE A STORM. Proper trimming of trees and shrubs allows the wind to blow through easily. DO NOT hat-rack trees.
  
  
• Plan to bring in or tie down outside items, including patio furniture, garbage cans, potted plants, and mailboxes. Assign responsibility for these items to family members as part of your hurricane plan.
  
  
• Plan to take down your TV/ham radio antenna if you have one. Be especially careful if it is near the power line to your home. The threat of electrocution is very real.
  
  
• Inspect your roof for loose tiles or shingles. Remove any debris.
  
  
• Know the location of the main electric breaker, water valve, and gas valve.
  
  
• Back up important computer files regularly. Keep backup diskettes in a waterproof container.
  
  
• Have plenty of large plastic garbage bags on hand to WRAP or COVER electronic equipment, including your VCR and your computer's central processing unit and monitor. Buy the extra-heavy duty contractor bags. Put the wrapped or covered electronics in an interior closet.
  
  
• Photograph or videotape your home and your personal belongings to help document any losses. Put copies, negatives, or tapes in a waterproof container or your safe deposit box. You can also send them for safekeeping to a friend or relative who lives out of town.
  
  
• Protect your pool.
  
  
• IMPORTANT: BEFORE a hurricane threatens, practice putting up your shutters to make sure they fit and that you have all the parts. Keep track of how long it takes to install them. This will give you an idea of how much time you will need when there is a Hurricane Warning. It's also great practice for when you might have to do it in a hurry.

Content provided by WFOR CBS4