It’s nearing that time of year again, when hurricanes put Mississippi in their crosshairs.

Gov. Phil Bryant declared this week as Hurricane Preparedness Week to help residents get prepared for the upcoming tropical weather season.

“Eleven years after Hurricane Katrina, we have vivid memories of that storm and its aftermath,” Bryant said. “Catastrophic hurricanes do not occur every year, but we must prepare ourselves in such a way that we are prepared for any level of destruction.”

“Your most precious commodity is your family. Every Mississippian must constantly stay prepared for the possibility of a hurricane,” said MEMA Executive Director Lee Smithson. “When it comes to hurricanes and tropical systems, it only takes one to change our lives forever. We must prepare for tomorrow’s disasters today.”

The Atlantic Hurricane Season officially starts June 1 and runs through Nov. 30. The best way to prepare for a hurricane is to have an emergency supply kit ready.

That kit should include:

• Flashlight and battery-powered radio with extra batteries

• Non-perishable food for at least three days

• One gallon of water, per person, per day for at least three days

• Toiletry items

• Pet food and pet supplies

• Medicine and prescription medication

• Copies of important family papers and documents

• Cash and travelers checks, enough to fill up your vehicle with fuel