Hello local neighbors and South Florida readers. We have an unfortunately good chance of getting at least some part of a Category 3 or 4 hurricane. South Florida 
will see the effects late on Wednesday and all day Thursday.
A few things:
Do not empty your pool. I don’t know where this horrible piece of advice started but if you don’t have water holding your pool down, then the groundwater will pop it up out of the ground. This is a fact. Plus, in an emergency, you can use pool water to flush your toilet.
Do not put tape on your windows. It ultimately doesn’t do enough to help and you have a big mess to scrape off the windows when they don’t get broken.
Yes, shutters or plywood is good for your windows. You do not need to get 3/4″ plywood. 1/2″ is fine, save the extra money. But if you don’t or can’t shutter your windows, stay in a room that is either on the north or west side of the house because the wind will be coming from the southeast corner. Or even better, a room that has cbs (concrete) walls or a room in the middle of the house.
If you have rechargeable batteries, charge them even if you don’t think you need them. If you have a chargeable battery for a boat, charge it. You might be able to use the battery for something. If you take prescription meds, make sure you have at least enough for a few weeks or more.
If you have pets, make sure you have their food, treats and meds for at least a couple weeks.
Do your laundry now if you have been letting the dirty clothes pile up. These minor household chores are some of the things that folks forget about.
We all know about food and water, but make sure you are prepared.
Take some cash out of the ATM. When there’s no power or internet, CASH is king. Fill the car up with gas now. Gas stations in South Florida are all required to operate with generators nowadays. However finding gas and waiting in line may not be pleasant on Thursday or Friday.
Use common sense and be as safe as possible. And let’s hope it just brushes by us. I’m rooting for the gulfstream.
For folks who wish to contact me: I will be making hurricane preparations on Tuesday, October 4.
If the storm appears to veer towards South Florida on Wednesday I will be leaving town until utilities are restored – possible remaining out of town through 
Sunday, October 9.
I will have access to email and telephone however I do not expect to be returning emails as frequently as I would during regular business hours.
I’ll post regular updates on my Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/bobdarow