Hurricanes and storms can be a frightening experience -- and I am sure you want to be ready if another of this season's storms hits Bermuda.

What is a hurricane? It is a severe tropical storm with heavy rain and intense winds which blow in a circular motion around a centre "eye''. If the storm passes directly overhead -- there will be a lull in the wind lasting from a few minutes up to an hour. Once the eye has passed, the winds will suddenly return at full force and blow from the opposite direction.

The hurricane season in the Atlantic runs from June 1 until November 30. Most hurricanes occur in August, September and October.

Winter storms can suddenly occur during the winter months and a winter storm warning is given in Bermuda when a storm with sustained winds of 55 mph (48 knots) or more is expected.

To be prepared for a hurricane please check the following: Inspect and repair windows, blinds, shutters, latches and hooks Prune trees and overhanging branches which may fall on buildings or power lines Trim your trees before there is a hurricane or storm threat. Do not wait until the last minute Keep emergency equipment available -- this should include a hammer and nails, pair of pliers, plywood (board for windows) masking tape, plastic sheeting, wire and rope, buckets (for fresh water) first-aid kit, flashlights and batteries, matches AM/FM radio (battery operated) fire extinguisher or sand bucket (non electric stove and fuel You may want to keep a stock of candles and hurricane lamps but avoid using them if possible, especially during high winds (fire caused by candles and kerosene lamps are a major hazard during hurricanes) Decide which is the safest room or location inside your house if a hurricane strikes When a hurricane watch is set you should: Carefully check your emergency equipment.

Stock up on suitable foods such as tinned and dry goods and powdered milk.

Fill your car with gas.

Boat owners should take prompt action to secure their boats.

Listen to radio for weather reports.

Warn your neighbours, especially the elderly and infirm.

When a hurricane warning is set: Check your shutters and secure your windows and doors.

Exposed windows which cannot be boarded up should be covered in masking tape to reduce risk of flying glass.

Secure all outdoor furniture and equipment.

Stay away from beaches and areas likely to be affected by high seas and tides.

What to do during a hurricane: Do not venture outside until the hurricane has completely passed.

During the height of a hurricane do not call the police or fire services except in a real emergency because it will probably be impossible to reach you quickly. Also avoid calling BELCO except in a real emergency -- because their crews are very limited in what they can do during the height of a storm.

If the power goes out -- unplug electrical equipment and appliances. Leave one light switched on so that you will know when power is restored.

After the hurricane: Seek medical aid if necessary.

Stay away from disaster areas -- you may hinder the rescue work and essential services.

Do not make unnecessary phone calls to the authorities.

Do not touch loose or dangling power lines. Call BELCO on 955.

Check on the condition of your neighbours, especially the elderly, handicapped and infirm.

Now it is up to you to be prepared as we are in the hurricane season.

MS J. LIGHTBOURNE Chief Nursing Officer/Health Disaster Co-ordinator