As hurricane season is upon us again, we need to watch the weather more closely, check our emergency supplies and think about what would happen if another major hurricane made landfall in the South Florida area. This should be a time of preparation and planning, not panic. Get Ready 2003 is the only pocket-size guide that will provide you with the information for hurricane readiness. This handy booklet is designed especially for families and contains information about how to take care of your pets and secure the family boat. Insurance is a big issue after a hurricane hits, and Get Ready 2003 has the prerequisite advice on how to document your possessions so that full compensation can be made. It also contains a wealth of other information that will help you prepare before, live through and recover after a hurricane.

Do not think that another "big one" could not hit South Florida. Andrew struck a decade ago, and it was the most costly hurricane in U. S. history. Although considerable progress has been made in hurricane preparedness since Andrew hit, much more needs to be done. It is up to all individuals to make their own preparations to secure their family and household, and Get Ready 2003 is designed to help you make the right decisions in the event of a hurricane.

Stephen P. Leatherman, Director
International Hurricane Center