With Hurricane Igor now imminent, Bermuda Police have advised locals to protect their homes before the onset of high winds.

Windows should be shuttered, or covered securely with plywood, to protect from flying debris.

Windows that cannot be protected may be covered with an 'X' of tape, to prevent flying glass. Windows and glass doors should be avoided during the storm.

Outdoor furniture, bins, ornaments, tools and other potential missiles should be placed indoors; certain types of furniture can be submerged in swimming pools.

If possible, any outdoor antennae should be taken out of harm's way.

Police also advise blocking off rooftop pipes with clean rags, while weather conditions allow, to prevent contamination of water tanks by windblown salt and leaves.

Gas tanks on bikes and cars should be filled, cell phones charged and a supply of cash put aside. Park vehicles away from the house, and out of the range of large trees.

Bathtubs can be used to store water, but should be checked for leaking first. Buckets of water can be used to flush toilets.

During the storm, homeowners are advised to open a leeward window a couple of inches to prevent the build-up of air pressure indoors.

However, in the event of the hurricane's eye passing overhead, remember that winds will return from the opposite direction.

A radio should be left on to catch advisories. The Emergency Broadcast Radio is 100.1 FM, and the Emergency Measures Organisation's website is at www.emobermuda.com.

The EMO has urged locals to act on storm bulletins from their source only.

The emergency telephone number 911 covers fire, Police and marine rescue services. Works & Engineering can be reached at 295 5151, while King Edward VII Memorial Hospital's number is 236 2345.

Bermuda's weather updates are posted online at www.weather.bm, and are also available by telephone at 977.

With the approach of the storm, vulnerable appliances should be unplugged or surge protected, and cables disconnected from television sets.

Recommended storm supplies are:

• Fresh water as well as tinned and non-perishable food, along with a manual can opener

• Buckets, water jugs and coolers

• A first aid kit, and an adequate supply of any prescription drugs

• Rope, string and wire

• Flashlights, hurricane lamps, matches and candles

• Batteries, toilet paper and household bleach (for purifying water)

• Battery operated radio, along with a fan and a clock

• Portable stove and fuel

• Tarpaulins, plastic sheeting and bags, tape, hammer and nails

Use candles with caution, and keep a sand bucket and fire extinguisher handy.