-Stock up on fresh batteries for clocks, radios and flashlights.

-Buy several gallons of fresh water. This is particularly important for those who rely on well water.

-If lightening occurs, disconnect cable lines from televisions, stereos and phone lines from computers. This will help prevent damage to these expensive items.

-Do not hook up generators directly to the electrical system of your home. Electricity could backfeed into power lines and endanger repair crews. Have a qualified electrician do the work or plug directly into the generator with the proper size extension cords.

-Make sure there is proper ventilation for any generator to avoid a buildup of carbon monoxide fumes.