Fire departments in Florida and throughout the Gulf Coast region are preparing for another hurricane season. An important part of the preparations are efforts to make residents more aware of how to deal with hurricanes before, during and after they arrive.

One of the hurricane awareness efforts is Hurricane Expo 2006, scheduled for April 29 at St. Mark-By-the-Sea Lutheran Church in Palm Coast, Fla. This year's event will feature speakers and exhibits covering such topics as "Preparing Your Home for a Hurricane," "Your Hurricane Supply List," and "Go Boxes and Evacuation Plans."

Other presentations will cover special topics involving preparations for the elderly, children and pets.

For more information about Hurricane Expo 2006, call 386-445-3420.