Prepare for a Hurricane on the Outer Banks

Family and friends often are overly concerned for those of us who choose to live on a barrier island in the face of a major storm. Of course they understand we are taken by the beauty of the sea when all is calm, but WHAT IN THE WORLD MAKES US CHOOSE TO STAY WHEN A HURRICANE IS ON THE WAY!

Some of our stubbornness has to do with years of experience and all the wonderful stories told by those who have lived here much longer. We develop a sense of storm patterns and lay of the land. Though we don't know the technical terms or have the fancy equipment of NOAA, we can sense when to stay and when to go.

So how do we prepare for a Hurricane on the Outer Banks? We follow all the lists for collecting flashlights, batteries, portable radios, manual can opener, non-perishable food, and tarps. We gather all important documents like birth certificates and insurance papers. When we know we are ready for evacuating or hunkering down, we get ready for the last minute things that must be done:

• Wal-mart for cookies and animal treats -- and check on neighbors
• Grocery store for liquid refreshment -- and check on neighbors
• Beach to watch increasing wave action-- and check on neighbors
• As wind increases make final check on house -- and check on neighbors
• Final preparation as we watch for latest on news -- and laugh with neighbors

Now I do want to make one final commentary. Storms are serious no matter where you live. Go inside when you hear thunder. When the sky looks really wierd and you live in a tornado prone area, take cover. When you live near a volcano and see smoke begin planning to leave. When you hear a hurricane is coming your way, plan to take the appropriate action.

Y'all be safe and enjoy life. Sometimes we find a rainbow when least expected.