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Date: September 18, 2003 
As Hurricane Isabel approaches, several states in the United Methodist connection have declared emergencies. UMCOR offers a few simple steps you can take if you live in an affected area.
First, listen constantly to the radio and/or television for official instructions. Be sure that you have a battery-operated radio or TV as a back up in case you lose power. If you live in a mobile home, check tiedowns and evacuate immediately. Avoid elevators.
If you are at home, stay inside and away from windows, skylights and glass doors. Keep a supply of flashlights and extra batteries handy. Avoid using open flames, such as candles and kerosene lamps, as sources of light. If your area loses power, turn off major appliances to reduce power surges when electricity is restored.
Some states have already announced evacuation measures. If officials in your area indicate evacuation is necessary, leave as soon as possible. Avoid flooded roads and watch for washed-out bridges. Secure your home by unplugging appliances and turning off electricity and the main water valve. Tell someone outside the storm area where you are going. If time permits, and you live in an identified surge zone, elevate furniture to protect it from flooding--or better yet, move it to a higher floor. Lock up your home and take pre-assembled emergency supplies, warm protective clothing, blankets and sleeping bag to the nearest shelter.
Stay tuned to local radio for information. Help injured or trapped persons; give first aid where appropriate. Do not move seriously injured persons unless they are in immediate danger of further injury. Call for help. Return home only after authorities advise that it is safe to do so. Avoid loose or dangling power lines and report them immediately to the power company, police or fire department.
All United Methodists: Please give generously to UMCOR's Hurricanes 2003, Advance #982438. Your tax-deductible gift may be placed in United Methodist church offering plates or sent directly to: UMCOR, 475 Riverside Drive, Room 330, New York, N.Y. 10115. Checks should be written to UMCOR. Call 1-800-554-8583 to make a credit card donation. Persons who can volunteer to work in the recovery efforts may call UMCOR's Volunteer Line toll free: 1-800-918-3100.
The United Methodist Committee on Relief (UMCOR) is a not-for-profit humanitarian agency of The United Methodist Church. UMCOR's ministries--aiding refugees, providing relief in disaster areas, and confronting the challenge of world hunger and poverty-- are helping to heal the hurts of humanity in more than 100 countries.
More detailed information about hurricanes preparedness is available from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) at http://www.fema.gov/hazards/hurricanes/