Thirteen to 17 named storms - seven to 10 of them hurricanes. That's what National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration forecasters are predicting for the 2007 hurricane season.

And if those numbers aren't disturbing enough, a report by University of Central Florida statistics professor Mark Johnson and Georgia researcher Chuck Watson says Carteret County has the highest probability nationwide of facing hurricane-force winds this season. Another seven of the top 20 at-risk counties are in North Carolina.

So learning how to prepare for a hurricane or tropical storm is not only smart but essential for those living in this area. Here are a few bits of hurricane advice.

What should be on my hurricane checklist?

Sleeping bags, flashlights, extra clothes, an extra pair of tough shoes, folding chairs, first-aid kit, canned or dried food, bottled water, plates, utensils, any hygiene items, necessary medications and prescriptions, spare batteries, identification and insurance information.

How do I secure my mobile home?

Mobile homes are more susceptible to hurricane damage - extra precaution should be taken to secure and protect one. Have a professional attach frame (over-the-top) ties to anchor your home. Be sure to box up or protect any breakables or mirrors. Anchor appliances with "L" brackets, which can be found at most hardware stores. Turn off all electricity and utilities and secure all windows.

If at all possible, try to find a place to stay, such as a shelter or a friend's home - mobile homes can create dangerous situations during hurricanes.

What should I bring in or secure outdoors?

Try to keep everything you can indoors. If you have outdoor furniture, secure it properly away from windows. Don't leave anything loose in your yard during a hurricane - check and double-check your property for any unsecured objects. As winds pick up, objects could become airborne.

Should I tape or board my windows?

According to the Federal Emergency Management Agency, permanent storm shutters are your best bet. If your windows aren't equipped with them as a storm is preparing to hit, the organization recommends going with 5/8" marine plywood - taping up your windows won't necessarily prevent breakage.

When do I evacuate? What should I bring along?

You should try to evacuate as soon as local officials give the order. Waiting even a couple of days, especially if you have to carry a trailer or boat, will put you in a long line of traffic. Many areas will have designated evacuation routes, so become familiar with these before you have to use them. Don't forget to find a place safely outside the evacuation zone to stay - a friend or relative's home or a hotel will do. If you plan to stay in a hotel or motel, be sure to get reservations beforehand to ensure that you get a room.

FEMA recommends getting between 20 to 50 miles inland. Public shelters are also made available.

What's a low-lying area?

Low-lying or coastal areas can flood easily and frequently. In the event of a hurricane, these places are likely to get the call for evacuation. While some may brave the storm, it's best to prepare an evacuation plan for you or your family ahead of time.

You may also want to check your insurance coverage if you live in a low-lying area. Often, basic homeowners' insurance won't cover floods.

How do I protect my boat?

If possible, get the boat out of the water and do not ride out the storm on the boat!

If your garage will allow, keep your boat there. If not, you can either store it in a marina or keep it at home. If you choose to go with the latter, load the boat onto its trailer, secure the trailer down and deflate some air from the tires. You will want to keep your boat as sealed as possible - use duct tape to cover any openings to protect from water surge. Remove the outboard motor and secure everything inside the boat or inside your home.

If anchoring out is the only available course, boaters should avoid shoal areas and look for areas with high embankments.

How do I save my food?

While refrigerators may fail and food can spoil only a few hours after power loss, freezers will keep food for several days if the freezer door is kept closed. Meanwhile, be sure to stock up on canned, dried and non-perishable foods.

What about the other members of the family - my pets?

Emergency shelters may take you, but very few will accept your pets (with guide dogs as an exception). You may choose to let your pets stay at a kennel if they won't be riding the storm out with you. If so, update their vaccinations and make sure they have proper identification. They will need a sufficiently sized carrier, a leash, food supply, bowls for food and water and any medications they may be on. Be sure to call ahead to ensure it has room for your pet to stay.

If Fido is braving the hurricane at home, make sure you get him or her inside and safe well before the storm so the pet can get used to their settings.

What can I do if they shut off the water?

It can take several days to get the water system running at full speed again; prepare accordingly. You should store water beforehand - enough for you and anyone else around to drink, bathe and use for sanitation. Boil water if necessary. One person can typically drink one gallon of water and go through a couple more for various uses in a day.

How do I get updates or information about the storm?

Check media sources periodically leading up to the storm - area radio and TV stations as well as Internet services will provide updates. During the storm, keep your radio on when power is down for emergency messages and updates. You may also want to obtain a hurricane-tracking map and follow the progress of the storm yourself.