How to Prepare for a Hurricane

July 7, 2005 — -- With wind speeds that reach more than 100 mph pushing tons of water through the air, hurricanes can bring untold danger and damage when they make landfall.

And while such natural disasters can't be avoided or stopped, proper preparation and planning can help ensure your safety. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention offers tips on how to be ready for dangerous hurricanes.

When the National Weather Service issues a hurricane watch or warning for your area, you should take the following steps:

Consider special needs:Take into consideration if you, a member of your family or an immediate neighbor is elderly or needs special attention — regular access to a dialysis machine or other medical conditions, for example. Alert local authorities about these considerations so they can plan accordingly.