See Hawai'i County Civil Defense updates for the Big Island: co.hawaii.hi.us/cd/message.htm

Prepare an evacuation plan. Identify where you could go if you are told to evacuate. Choose several places — a friend's home in a safe area, with family, a hotel or shelter. Be sure to bring extra clothing, pillows and blankets, and other hygiene and comfort supplies.

Assemble a family disaster supply kit. Have emergency supplies set aside for all members of your household, including medication, non-perishable food, a nonelectric can opener, bottled water (at least three gallons per person), a battery-operated radio, flashlight with extra batteries, important documents, cash and credit cards, first-aid kit, and special items for infants, elderly or disabled family members, and pets.

Prepare for high winds. Make trees more wind-resistant by removing diseased and damaged limbs, then strategically removing branches so that wind can blow through. Install permanent shutters on your windows and add protection to the outside areas of sliding glass doors. Strengthen garage doors and unreinforced masonry. Move or secure lawn furniture, outdoor decorations or ornaments, trash cans, hanging plants and anything that can be picked up by wind.

The Hawaiian Humane Society also has tips for pet owners.

• Pets are not allowed in Red Cross shelters so people in low-lying and flood areas should arrange with a friend or relative to care for pets if forced to evacuate. If you have no place to bring your pet and must evacuate, place the animal in its carrier in your parked car near the emergency shelter. Leave the windows open about an inch, and when you can do it safely, check on your pet as frequently as you can.

• Be sure your pet is wearing identification.

• Have a pet carrier or leash on hand for each animal.

• Stock up on medications and food, as well as kitty litter, newspapers, plastic bags and cleansers to handle wastes.

• Have a three-day water supply for your pets and store the water in sturdy containers.