The Mississippi Emergency Management Agency recommends the following safety tips.

If a hurricane threatens your area, you should:

• Listen to the radio or TV for information.
• Secure your home, close storm shutters or board up your windows, secure outdoor objects or bring them indoors.
• Turn off utilities if instructed to do so. Otherwise, turn the refrigerator thermostat to its coldest setting and keep its doors closed.
• Turn off propane tanks.
• Avoid using the phone except for serious emergencies.
• Move your boat if time permits.
• Ensure a supply of water for sanitary purposes such as cleaning and flushing toilets. Fill the bathtub and other large containers with water.

You should evacuate under these conditions:

• If you are directed by local authorities to do so, be sure to follow their instructions.
• If you live in a mobile home or temporary structure, such shelters are particularly hazardous during hurricanes no matter how well-fastened to the ground.
• If you live in a high-rise building, hurricane winds are stronger at higher elevations.
• If you live on the coast, in a floodplain, near a river or on an inland waterway.
• If you think you are in danger.