It’s likely to be another one of those storms when we in the Miss-Lou can breathe a sigh of relief.

As of Saturday night, Dennis was on a collision course with the coast, but Natchez is out of the warning area.

But that doesn’t mean we are not affected. Many families have sought refuge in our community, booking hotel rooms or looking for the Red Cross shelter.

While the numbers may not match last fall’s fallout from Ivan, we should still roll out the welcome mat for these accidental tourists. As always, we have the perfect opportunity to show people what we are most famous for &045; our hospitality &045; at a time when those people could certainly use some good cheer.

And in case Dennis does wreak some havoc on our area &045; or another storm later in the season does &045; here are a few tips to remember from the Red Cross:

4Have one gallon of water per person per day, with at least a three-day supply for everyone in the family on hand before an emergency occurs.

4Keep a three-day storage of food should include ready-to-eat canned foods, juices and high energy foods such as peanut butter, crackers, granola bars and trail mix.

4Assemble a first aid kit for the home and for the car.

4Keep tools and supplies such as a battery-operated radio and flashlight &045; and extra batteries for both &045; as well as a non-electric can opener and small fire extinguisher.

4Post emergency numbers where all members of the family can see them. Discuss plans for coping with emergencies with everyone in the family.

Those are good tips for any emergency. Meanwhile, let’s pray Dennis does the least harm possible.