Planning is key to holding out during a hurricane

- Keep a first-aid kit.

- Keep a disaster kit with tools, flashlight, water, blankets and other household goods.

- Get a NOAA weather radio. Replace batteries every six months.

- Become familiar with different meteorological terms and what they mean.

- Post emergency telephone numbers next to all phones and tell children when it is appropriate to call 9-1-1.

- Create identification cards with pictures for all family members with names, phone numbers and addresses.

- Stock up on non-perishable items, like canned food. Remember to replenish the stock after each weather event.

- Designate parts of your home as safe areas. Remember that if an area is safe from flooding that doesn’t mean it is safe from wind damage.

- Take CPR and first-aid classes.

- Set up an out-of-state friend as an emergency contact.

- Find out how your office will notify you if work is cancelled because of a hurricane. Some businesses have a hotline you can call to hear automated instructions.

- Designate a spot as an emergency rendezvous point if family members are separated.

- Go to an ATM for extra cash.

—Information compiled from National Hurricane Center and Federal Emergency Management Agency