THE VILLAGES - If you are adequately prepared for a hurricane, you can survive any disaster: That was the focal point of a discussion about disaster preparedness offered by an American Red Cross speaker at the April 16 meeting of The Villages Property Owners Association.

Bernis Frydrych of the Red Cross for Lake, Sumter and Marion counties spoke to a crowd of about 75 at the Paradise Center about basic preparations for the upcoming hurricane season - June 1 through Nov. 30 - as well as other natural disasters and even terrorism.

She said a major hurricane could hit the area sooner than some may think.

"Unfortunately, we're way, way overdue for (a hurricane) to come see us," Frydrych said. "It's been a while since we've had one."

She said other disasters common to the area include wildfires and house fires, and pointed out another potential problem for anyone living close to major thoroughfares - hazardous waste spills.

"If you live within five miles of any hazardous waste accident, you must evacuate," Frydrych stressed, reminding residents that many of them live close to U.S. 441 and 301.

The most important thing when it comes to emergency preparedness, Frydrych said, is to gather all important documents into a waterproof box, so when it comes time to evacuate, nothing will be left behind.

Items of importance include insurance policies, wills, contracts, deeds, financial paperwork, immunization records and Social Security cards.

Also, be sure to know or have filed any account numbers or important telephone numbers. Frydrych pointed out that many people forget these things when under duress.

Canned goods along with a can opener also are vital in the event a storm or other disaster cuts off power.

Additionally, be sure to have at least three weeks' worth of medications; some doctors will give out extra samples to patients if they explain that they are preparing for a disaster.

Frydrych pointed out that at times of confusion, cell phones and land lines won't work; she recommends having hand-held radios for communication.

She also stressed the importance of bringing in plants and other loose objects in preparation for a storm, as those items have the potential to become weapons.

"Those 'flying missiles' will go through yours and everyone else's windows," she cautioned.

One thing many people don't properly plan for is what to do with pets in the event of an evacuation.

As shelters don't usually accept pets, Frydrych advises pet owners to talk to their veterinarians or family members and friends about possible emergency boarding.

She also emphasized that when it comes to evacuation, the sooner the better. Evacuating 72 hours before a hurricane is expected to make landfall is optimal. People with disabilities should notify local officials.

Frydrych also spoke briefly about services the Red Cross provides to the families of the men and women serving overseas. She said the Red Cross is on hand at many deployments to make families aware that the organization is available.

"The soldiers, when they are going out, know their families have someone to have contact with," she said, adding that the Red Cross serves as a strong communication medium between the servicemen and women and their loved ones.

The Red Cross also provides counseling to children with parents or other family members away from home serving in the military, focusing mainly on middle school-age children, as they are the ones who have the most difficulty dealing with the separation.

"It's awfully hard, when they watch the TV each day, and wonder where Mommy and Daddy are and if they are all right," she said.

For more information about disaster preparedness or other services provided by the American Red Cross, contact your local chapter at (386) 314-0883.