If a hurricane is heading to your area, here are some tips to stay safe.

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• Monitor your radio or television for weather updates and instructions from public safety officials. Upon activation of the Miami-Dade County Emergency Operations Center, all key service update information will be posted on www.miamidade.gov.

• Stay indoors, preferably in a room with few or no windows.

• Take your emergency kit and disaster supplies with you if you move from room to room or if you evacuate to a shelter.

• If flooding threatens your home, turn off electricity at the main breaker.

• Use flashlights, not candles or kerosene lamps, as your light source.

• If you lose power, turn off all major appliances.

• Avoid using the phone and do not take a bath or shower during the storm.

• Fight the temptation to go outside during the eye of the storm. There's only a brief period of calm before hurricane-force winds return.

• Keep children informed about what’s happening and watch for signs of stress.

• Keep animals in their carriers or crate.

• Get in the tub and pull a mattress over you to protect yourself from debris if your home begins to come apart.

• For seaport and airport passenger information, contact your local carrier about closings.

• Listen for advisories from local law enforcement agencies regarding roadways and bridges being locked down.