Al: As one veteran to another, my best thoughts are with you.
Batten down, plug and fill the tub, fill as many containers as you have with clean water, make sure you have batteries for the flashlight and radio, don't go out to photograph-those that have experience don't need the reminder, those that haven't experienced won't understand anyhow.
Stay in the "most indooor" room, get your Mom to come over now, that way she won't worry about you and vice versa.
Remember, if it does hit straight on, that the "eye" brings true meaning to "calm before the storm" and is fleeting.
Have a phone that does not depend on electricity-I talked to people during the 2 1/2 days of Elena in '85, and a propane cookstove is handy AFTER the storm, when you can go back outside, or open lots of windows for ventilation.
Don't open the fridge or freezer more than ABSOLUTELY needed, the freezer will hold for two days if left alone.
Candles are never to be unattended.
Critters are just as discombobulated as you, give them a chance to get away, and if you have pets, keep them close to you.
And the one I remember most from Camille in '69, mandarin oranges can make you sick if you eat them for three or four days straight, so take Vitamin C instead.
