Houston may still see Hurricane Alex, the next few days will tell. But whether it’s Alex or the next one, we’re entering active hurricane season, and the chances of the Gulf Coast getting hit once or twice are higher than in recent years, well over 50%. There was relatively little hurricane activity last year, but as people who live in a region where some areas are still recovering from Katrina, we know enough to take this season seriously.

Here are some tips to get you through this hurricane season.

1. Stay informed: Don’t just walk outside and squint at the sky, or lick your finger to test the direction of the wind. The meteorologists are here to help you. They can see further. Listen to the radio, watch the news, check the news online, but stay informed. Know what you’re dealing with and take warnings seriously.

2. Secure Your Property – Before the urgency of the storm requires you to protect hatches with plywood and tarp, think ahead. If your home does not have impact-resistant windows and doors, consider moving some of your valuables to Houston storage during storm season. Houston Self Storage is temperature controlled and secure. You can even put your boat in there, if you’re afraid it might float in the floods.

4. Stock up on basics if you’re staying at home: gallons of clean water, non-perishable food, cookware that doesn’t require electricity (or a small generator), batteries, flashlights, blankets, pillows, and emergency medical supplies. Keep important documents and some cash in waterproof containers. A deck of cards and a bottle of whiskey can go a long way in getting you through tough times.

5. Have a family disaster plan: Have predetermined escape routes and places to meet. Choose an out-of-state friend or family member as your emergency contact so everyone in your family has a single point of reference Have a pet plan in case you need to evacuate: a cage, food, etc. Post emergency phone numbers and make sure kids know how to use the 911 system.

6. Arrange to go somewhere else: You may just want to schedule vacations out of the area during hurricane season. Probably a bit further up the Gulf Coast. Louisiana relatives aren’t necessarily the ones to knock in the summer months. In fact, maybe you should call them and invite them up north with you. Timeshare on a Tennessee lake, anyone?

Or you can always try living in Houston self storage. It’s air-conditioned and safe, but I think they frown.

7. Insurance: You will have to take this into account for next year, since there is no rush to get insurance at this time. When storms enter the Gulf and threaten the coast, most insurers consider it too risky to write new policies. But when the clouds disperse and the people of the north start talking about the changing leaves, a separate insurance policy that protects your home against flood damage is a wise and relatively inexpensive investment. You should also make sure that you are covered against wind damage.

Good luck and stay safe folks!