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5. It gets really dark when there's no electricity. Battery and solar operated light products are much better than candles. Make sure you have at least one per person.
6. Your cordless phone won't work without electricity. Make sure you can communicate with loved ones. Have a phone with a regular cord. They're very inexpensive and can be your communication lifeline in an emergency.
7. Pets are family too. Make sure you have a pet carrier or transportation device for each pet in your home along with a plan for your pets should a disaster occur.
8. Cash is a must. ATM machines don't work when
electricity is out and
likelihood of your corner store offering to cash a check is slim. Sock away some bucks in that plastic carrying case (see tip #2) so you'll never be caught short-handed.
9. When preparing your home, don't forget to look up. Check those trees and tree limbs. Trim those that could damage your house.
10. Your garage door is a vulnerable wind entry point during a hurricane. Make sure you have it reinforced to prevent collapse.

Denise O'Berry is a small business consultant in Tampa, Florida. For more hurricane information, tips and tools, visit http://www.myhurricanecenter.com