easier for all of us when the next hurricane strikes.

Frank Gamble, Director of the Bermuda Red Cross said: "June ushers in the hurricane season, which continues through November.

"All areas in Bermuda are at risk for hurricanes, which are accompanied by high winds, and heavy coastal flooding''.

Hurricanes can come ashore with winds blowing from 74 to more than 200 miles per hours.

Damage from storm surge, high tides, wind-driven water, flooding, and torrential rains may affect Bermuda's entire coastline and most areas inland.

"They're an awesome threat,'' said Gamble.

With a highly active hurricane season forecasted, the Red Cross advises the public to take the following precautions: 1. Keep battery-powered equipment in good shape, including radios and flashlights. Keep extra batteries on hand.

2. Keep a supply of boards, tools, and other equipment to cover windows if necessary.

3. Stock up on canned goods and other foods that don't require cooking or refrigeration and a minimum potable supple of water.

4. If a family member requires prescription medication, a two-week supply should always be on hand during the hurricane season.

5. Trim the trees in your yard, especially those near your home, so branches won't fly around during a storm, and inspect your roof and fix any loose slate.

6. Know the location of the nearest emergency shelter and listen to news reports daily for potential storm threats.

Meteorologists try to give plenty of warning before a hurricane strikes, but, because of the erratic nature of tropical storms, it is often impossible to predict the exact location and time of landfall of a hurricane.

The Red Cross advises that as soon as a "hurricane warning'' is announced and a land strike is imminent, residents should stay tuned to radio and television for further advisories and should take the following steps: 1. If told to evacuate, do so immediately. Stay away from coastal areas as deadly storm surges, wall of about 20 feet of water, can occur.

2. If you are evacuated, take important documents with you as well as such things as prescriptions, eyeglasses, food, changes of clothing, and toys and books for the children.

3. If your area is not ordered to evacuate, stay indoors during the storm, preferably in a brick or concrete building. Stay away from windows.

4. If high winds are likely, board up windows.

5. Collect drinking water in clean bottles, cooking utensils, and clean bathtubs.

6. Turn refrigerators up to the coldest setting to preserve food as long as possible if the power fails.

7. Bring outdoor objects, such as garbage cans, yard furniture, TV antennas, toys, and tools, inside for safe keeping.

8. In the event of evacuation, make arrangements for a safe place for your pets. If you must leave them behind, put them in an interior room with plenty of food and water. Do not tranquillise them as they will need to be alert to survive.

9. During the hurricane don't be fooled by a lull in the storm as the "eye'' passes over -- this calm lasts only a few minutes. Stay inside because the fury of the wind will return, this time from the opposite direction.

Anyone wishing more information on preparing for hurricanes or who would like to support Red Cross disaster preparedness and relief efforts should contact the Red Cross at 236-8253.