It’s time again to get prepared

Hurricane season hasn’t officially come as yet but the tropics couldn’t wait. Tropical Storm Alberto is already thundering around in the Atlantic Ocean off the coast of South Carolina at 40 mph.

But fear not. It is expected to head northeast in the next few days. Let this be a reminder, however, for all of us that the 2012 hurricane season begins next week on June 1. And that is not too early to start with preliminary plans if a big one comes this way.

No. 1 is choosing a place to head if the storm demands it. There is no sense in waiting at home to protect the surroundings if there’s a chance of catastrophe. Arrange things to make your home as secure as possible without your presence.

If a storm does arrive that does not require evacuation, we should be well stocked with necessities which may not be available even in a mild storm. This can include food, water, gas in the vehicles, batteries and fuel to light up the surroundings in case electricity goes out and charcoal for use in cooking food if needed. And, of course, there are other special needs for many.

But the main message is to get prepared now before the big ones threaten to come this way, which happens often in this hurricane country. And then you can sit back and relax and await the outcome of the season. And perhaps say a prayer that this will be one of those non-seasons which don’t come around very often.