As I write this blog, I am listening to reports of the advance of Tropical Storm Hanna which may or may not get classified as a Hurricane.  Hurricane Ike is following close behind.

I'm lucky.  I should mostly get rain and some wind.  But here are some things to keep in mind to prepare for storms and such (blizzards, earthquakes, etc.):

• Keep your rain gutters and down spouts clear so that water can drain.
• If you have furniture, grills, and play equipment outside, move it inside if high winds are expected.
• You should always have some nutritious food that doesn't require cooking, in case you lose power and water.
• It's not a bad idea to keep a few gallon jugs filled with driking water, just in case.
• Have candles, flashlights, camping lanterns, and extra batteries handy.
• Because loss of electricity is very common during storms, take some precautions and make sure your cell phone and lap top are fully charged, that you have a non-cordless phone, a battery-operated radio, and a battery-operated clock available, and that you have a manual can opener.

If your life is disrupted by a storm or lack of power, protect yourself and your loved ones (including pets), help any neighbors who may require assistance, and, if the power doesn't come back on quickly, embrace the opportunity to live life unplugged.