They say hurricane season in New England lasts from about May to October, but September is known as the month when most of the bad storms come our way.

The legendary hurricane of 1938 blew through the state on Sept. 21. Two hurricanes, Carol and Edna, struck Maine in early September of 1954. Hurricane Gloria came across inland Maine on Sept. 28, 1985. Hurricane Floyd drenched Maine Sept. 17, 1999. While September is historically an active month for New England ’canes, there are outliers. Sandy came through in late October 2012, and Bob in 1991 occurred in August. And, a week ago, Hurricane Cristobal passed quietly just southeast of us.

In Maine, we’ve been fortunate to miss a lot of direct hits, but the rain and wind can be devastating to our homes and properties nonetheless. Unfortunately, there’s not much to do to prevent a storm from doing what it wants to do, but we can take precautions in hopes of limiting the damage. Being aware of forecasts is the first step. Unlike 1938, when no one had a clue a huge storm was approaching, we have the gift of excellent weather forecasting technology. So, before the storm hits and the power goes out, make sure you know a storm’s path, duration and intensity. And, when you aren’t able to use the TV or computer due to a power outage, a battery-powered weather radio (with extra batteries) is a good choice.

Before a hurricane hits, there are tasks to be accomplished. First, make sure to bring in all the items from the yard that could blow around during the storm. Batten down the hatches, as the saying goes. Go one step further and consider boarding up windows with plywood, or if you have the spare cash, buy shutters that actually close over your windows. There are newfangled metal shutters that, while costly, act as impenetrable shields.

Further necessary steps are to get a full tank of gas in the car before the storm. Buy plenty of drinking water. Buy plenty of food that doesn’t need to be refrigerated. Fill the tub with water so you can flush the toilet. And make sure you have at least a few flashlights and, preferably, an electric Coleman lantern to light up a room. Don’t bother with kerosene lanterns. They may have been fine back in the 1800s when people dealt with open fire daily, but we modern folk are likely to burn down the house with one of those things. Stick to electric lanterns.

Also, before the hurricane hits, power up your cell phone, and once the power is out, don’t use it except for emergencies. Angry Birds can wait. Those with still-strong memories of the Patriots Day Storm in 2007 or the 1998 ice storm remember well how long a power outage can last in the Pine Tree State, where trees can wreak havoc on the power infrastructure.

The other important thing in the event of a power outage is to have a variety of food at the ready. Dry Cheerios and crackers will get old fast. There are several emergency food suppliers on the market that sell pre-packaged and pre-sorted meals. The key is to practice with what you’re going to eat, and how you prepare it, before you actually have to resort to using the supply. Get used to working that Coleman stove before the lights are out and the family is waiting for dinner.

The last, but not least, item to consider is non-electrical entertainment for nights without power. Puzzle books, literature, magazines, are all useful tools to stave off the boredom of a TV-less evening. And have a good flashlight for each of the people in your family. Headlamps work best since they free up your hands.

When you’re stuck in your house for a couple days in September without power, life can get pretty discouraging. But just look at the silver lining: At least your pipes aren’t going to freeze as they could during a winter power outage. There’s always something to be thankful for, even after a hurricane.

–John Balentine, managing editor