the aftermath of Hurricane Emily know first hand that a direct hit by a major hurricane is much, much worse than a glancing blow.

For those, the General Media Relations Advisory issued for this supplement by the Police Media Relations office is a handy reminder of preparations and precautions.

It is particularly valuable advice for young families, first time home owners and new residents.

Hurricane Warning When a hurricane warning is set, it means that winds will increase to hurricane force within 24 hours. The Emergency Measures Organisation, (EMO) advises you to close your shutters and board up the windows.

Where windows cannot be boarded up, use masking tape to minimise flying glass.

Secure outdoor furniture and equipment. Prepare your strong room.

Practice finding the Emergency Broadcasting Station at 100.1 mghz on the FM band.

Make sure you have spare batteries for your portable radio.

Check again on neighbours who are particularly vulnerable, such as the elderly and the infirm.

Hurricane Imminent When a hurricane is categorised as imminent, it means that it is within twelve hours of Bermuda. The Emergency Broadcast Station (EBS) swings into action and is in direct contact with key players of the EMO.

The EMO advises to fill containers with fresh water, including your bathtub.

Bring animals inside or let them roam freely, so that they are able to find their own shelter.

Park your vehicle in a safe place.

Move your supplies into your strong room and be prepared to stay there.

Monitor the local radio/television stations for weather reports and other information.

In the event that the commercial broadcast stations loose transmission, the EBS will itself begin direct transmission for Bermuda.

For those resident living in low lying areas, close to the ocean, listen carefully for any instructions from the EMO regarding evacuation.

Make prior arrangements to move to another location on higher ground in case evacuation becomes necessary.

When moving take into consideration the fact that some roads may be impassable before the storm hits due to storm surge.

Ground Zero When the hurricane is here, the EMO strongly advises the public not to go outside until the hurricane is completely passed.

Tightly close all windows, except those on the side opposite the direction of the wind.

If the wind is blowing from the south, for example, you can open windows on the northern side about 6 inches.

This reduces build-up of pressure inside the house.

When the eye is passing, close the open windows and open the ones on the opposite side of the house.

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

Hurricane Aftermath After the hurricane, the EMO strongly advises you to stay away from disaster areas because you may hinder the work of rescue and essential services The EMO asks that you don't make unnecessary phone calls.

Make sure your children are aware of the danger of touching loose or dangling wires, which still could be live and electrocute them.

Report all downed or dangerous power lines to BELCO Sterilise or boil your drinking water until you are able to determine if your tank water is fit to drink.

Check on your neighbours, especially the elderly and the infirm.

This feature was contributed by Evelyn James Barnett, Public Media Relations of the Bermuda Police Service.