The 2003 Atlantic hurricane season (June 1 to November 1) is now nearing the end of its season. But for us, here in the Northeast, this is the most active time period.

With this in mind, it is interesting to note that Long Island has not experienced a real hurricane in quite some time. All the more noteworthy is the importance of emergency preparedness for such an event.

The awesome fury of a full-fledged hurricane wherein winds exceed 75 miles per hour along with heavy, blinding rains can cause great damage and an array of safety problems such as flooding, downed wires, broken trees and contaminated water. The strength of such a storm is clearly evident in what we now call the Shinnecock Canal, which was actually formed by the power associated with a hurricane in 1938.

Knowing how to prepare and what to do during a hurricane can mean the difference between life and death. Since no one can predict when the next storm will directly hit our area, being ready is half the battle.

Here are several tips about hurricane safety:

* Check All Battery Powered Equipment - Radio, television, flashlights, generators. If utility services are interrupted, these and other like equipment will be your only sources of information and power.

* Keep Your Car/Truck Fueled in Case of Evacuation - Service stations may be inoperable after the storm hits. Should you need to leave your home, there will be no time to waste.

* Purchase Bottled Water - Well in advance of the storm, store drinking water in spare bottles or jugs, even in a clean bathtub. Local water service may be contaminated or damaged by the storm.

* Secured All Outdoor Objects - Place garbage cans, lawn furniture, garden equipment and toys in the garage or in the house as these and other like items can become deadly missiles if swept up in the winds of a hurricane.

* Board up Windows - Or protect them with storm shutters or tape. Safety from flying glass is a major concern.

* Remain Indoors During the Storm - Flying debris can cause serious injury, even death. Be especially watchful of the "eye" of the storm, the calmest portion of a hurricane, which can present a false impression that the storm is over. Nothing could be less true. The worst part of the storm is yet to come. Also, be alert for tornado watches and warnings as these are often spawned by hurricanes. Be prepared to seek inside shelter immediately, preferably below ground level.

* Take the Earliest Warning Seriously - This is the time to begin purchasing emergency supplies. Don't wait until the last minute as local store stocks will become depleted quickly. If you're out on the boat, begin heading for safe harbor at once. If you're spending the day at the beach or another low-lying area near the water, begin the trip to higher and safer ground as soon as possible.

* Most Importantly - Keep tuned to NOAA (National Weather Service) Weather Radio or your local radio or television station for the latest weather service advisories and updates as well as special weather statements from your local government.

Many of these suggestions can be undertaken well in advance of this or any serious weather event. In fact, you should make it a regular practice to be sure you and your family are ready for the next storm.

For more helpful tips, you can obtain a free guide about hurricane safety and storm preparedness (as compiled by Nassau County) at the library or village hall. You can also call 746-2448 or write: Mineola Auxiliary Police Department, Storm Safety Tips, 300 Garfield Avenue, Mineola, New York 11501-2308.

It's never too early to be ready for the unknown.