 Hurricanes can be very destructive, although we can't stop them, we can lessen the effects of hurricanes on our lives and property by preparing. Start by having a family disaster management plan in place, long before the hurricane season starts. Discuss your plan with your family and ensure that everyone knows their role. Okay everyone, let's go over our family disaster plan from last year. You should also have an emergency supply schedule for items that do not need refrigeration and will last for some time. Include canned foods, water, clothing, first aid supplies, flashlights, battery powered radios, batteries, sanitation and hygiene supplies, medication, special need items for infants, the elderly and persons with disabilities. Remember to regularly replace items like water, food, medication and batteries. Ensure that your home and vehicle insurance coverage are appropriate and up-to-date and secure important documents in a watertight container. Ensure that your house and property is in good condition and can weather the storm. Trim branches away from your house and prune all dead or weak trees on your property. The Atlantic hurricane season is from June to November but preparedness is year round. Always be prepared. This message brought to you by the View for the South District Disaster Preparedness Committee and NEMO and funded by the US Aid Office of Foreign Disaster Assistance.