In the midst of a vicious hurricane season, the American Society of Safety Engineers (ASSE) urges everyone in the affected areas to take steps now to protect their businesses, schools, homes, and their community and to heed the warnings of federal and state officials. ASSE has passed information along to its 32,000 occupational safety, health and environmental professional members.

Go to ASSE’s web site for a variety of hurricane safety related information.

Hurricanes often produce high winds, tornadoes, large amounts of rain and power outages that can affect citizens for days after the initial storm has passed. It’s important for residents to have at least a three-day supply of water for each individual in the family, including pets, along with non-perishable food, a first aid kit, battery-powered radio, extra batteries and a flashlight.

If asked to evacuate, it is recommended that people have a "to go" bag ready and include: maps/evacuation routes; important documents such as proof residence, pictures of your family including pets, insurance policies, and tax records; comfortable clothing and blankets; and unique family needs such as prescription medications, pet supplies, infant supplies or any other unique need your family may have.

Individuals can also call 1-800-BE-READY or 1-888-SE-LISTO for more emergency preparedness information.