Alex, Bonnie, Colin, Danielle, Earl, Fiona and Gaston. That’s just some of the names you may be hearing during the 2010 Atlantic hurricane season. While no one knows exactly how many storms will form this year or which part of the United States will be affected, you can take steps to prepare in case one comes to our area.

“You can reduce the effects of a hurricane disaster by planning ahead and knowing what actions you need to take,” says George Davis, M.D., medical director of emergency medicine at Houston Northwest Medical Center. “Being aware of what may – or may not – be coming your way can help reduce potential damage to your home or belongings, as well as safeguard your health and that of your family.”

Dr. Davis advises those who may potentially be in harm’s way to begin preparing early so they are ready to deal with days, or even weeks, without electricity and services.  He offers the following tips to prepare for an impending tropical storm or hurricane that may find its way to shore.

Stay informed. Hurricane season runs from June 1 through the end of November. During those months, you should stay alert to news of any tropical developments. Local news programs, the radio, the internet and weather channels are great sources of information. Statistically, most hurricanes that make landfall in the United States occur in September, followed by August and July.

Educate yourself. Become familiar with terms like “watch” and “warning.” A “watch” means that conditions are favorable for a tropical storm or hurricane to develop within 36 hours. A “warning” means that tropical storm or hurricane conditions are expected within 24 hours. The watch and warning system gives you and your family time to plan and take steps to evacuate if necessary.

You also should know whether the area you live in is prone to flooding or storm surge damage after a storm. If you live in a low-lying area, you should make plans to evacuate before a storm hits. Some coastal areas are subject to mandatory evacuations for hurricanes. Check with local officials to see if your area is part of a mandatory evacuation plan.

Prepare your family. It’s a good idea to make a disaster plan for your family. You should decide where your family will go if an evacuation is necessary. Since hurricanes often change course, you should have several possible locations in mind that will take you and your family to a safer area. Here are some other tips for making your family’s plan:

• Make a list of telephone numbers that you might need and put important documents such as insurance policies, social security cards, deeds, wills, proof of residence, drivers license, birth and marriage certificates, etc. in a waterproof, resealable container.
• Have an updated road map in your car and make sure it has a full tank of gas.
• Locate the safest area of your home, if you decide to stay.
• Plan what you will do with pets if you need to evacuate since not all hurricane shelters take pets.
• Pack a family disaster supply kit that may include the following:
• At least one gallon of water per person and non-perishable food for three to seven days
• Special foods for infants, those on restricted diets and the elderly
• A manual can opener, cooking tools, fuel, paper plates, napkins and plastic utensils
• Bedding, including blankets or sleeping bags and pillows
• Clothing for several days
• A first aid kit and medications (including a list of prescriptions, pharmacy information and prescribing physician)
• Hygiene items such as toilet paper, baby wipes, and waterless hand cleaner
• Cash and credit cards because banks and ATMs may not be available for several days following a storm
• Battery operated flashlight, radio and extra batteries
• Books, games and other items to help your family pass the time

When traveling with an infant, make sure you plan for his or her special needs. You’ll need to remember items like formula, baby foods, bottles and baby wipes. “Don’t forget medications for the baby, such as an over-the-counter fever reducer for infants,” adds Dr. Davis.

If you are planning to take your pets along, you’ll need food and water for them, as well as a carrier or cage. Don’t forget to take proof of their immunizations and any medications that your pets will need. Bring a leash for dogs.

Get your house ready. Tropical storms and hurricanes mean high winds. You may want to consider having storm shutters installed or purchasing pre-cut outdoor plywood that is at least ½ inch thick for each window of your home. Check trees near your house for diseased or dead limbs, overhanging branches and other possible hazards. Bring in any outdoor furniture, plant containers or other items that can be picked up by the high winds.

Get your car ready. If a storm is brewing in your area, you may want to keep a full tank of gas in your car. Gas stations often run out of fuel when everyone starts evacuating for a hurricane and they cannot start pumping until electricity is restored after a storm. You may want to plan a summer car check of vital fluids, hoses and belts to make sure your car is in good working order.

“No two storms are alike, so you need to start preparations before the winds begin picking up and the rain starts falling,” says Dr. Davis. “Living in the Gulf Coast area means that we should take all hurricanes seriously so we can weather the storm and stay safe and healthy.”