Few Southwest Florida residents will ever forget the devastation caused by Hurricane Charley in Punta Gorda in 2004, and by Hurricane Wilma in Collier and southern Lee counties just one year later.

Record-breaking hurricane seasons have mercifully been followed by a couple of relatively quiet years. However, emergency managers warn against complacency.

Once again, hurricane experts are predicting another above-average year for hurricane activity in the Atlantic Basin, and local residents should pay appropriate attention to their warnings.

Every adult resident has a responsibility to themselves, their families, and their neighbors to prepare for the worst. Should a hurricane of any magnitude strike the area, you must be prepared to secure your home and to evacuate yourself, your family and your pets away from the area if ordered to do so.

You cannot expect local emergency personnel to answer calls for help during the storm -- and you should not depend on government help to feed, house and clothe your family after the storm has passed.

A thoughtless lack of individual planning and responsibility can have devastating effects such as loss of property, loss of home or even loss of life! Please review the information in this guide to prepare your family for the worst! Stay aware! Be prepared!