The tropics are heating up and the Alabama Cooperative Extension System has released a new iBook to help in preparation for storms and clean up.

The emergency handbook is a comprehensive resource for emergency planning, preparation and storm recovery.

The guide was prepared by the ACES in partnership with WSFA-TV, ACES Director Gary Lemme said.

“The Emergency Handbook is filled with resources and information that connect to every family, business and community in Alabama,” said Lemme. “Built on research-based knowledge from Auburn University and other land-grant institutions including Clemson University, the University of Florida and Mississippi State University, it also draws on resources like the Extension Disaster Education Network (EDEN) and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). Quite simply, it is the best of our information, intended for you to use during the worst of situations. ”

At present, Tropical Storm Erika is battering the Caribbean, according to Accuweather. Erika is spinning about 85 miles west of Guadeloupe as of Thursday morning.

The handbook contains more than 100 pages that outline categories, including people and pets, home and business, landscape and garden, and farms and livestock.

Some topics from the book include:

• Stocking the basics for emergencies;

• A caregivers guide for sheltering and evacuating;

• Caring for pets during storms and evacuations;

• Helping children cope;

• Food storage charts – indicating how long food is safe to eat after the power goes out;

• Personal safety after a storm;

• Threats from fire ants, snakes and other wildlife after a storm;

• Reentering and cleaning up a flooded home;

• Recovering family treasures;

• Saving damaged trees;

Additionally, the iBook shows helpful videos about storm safety topics, including:

• Alabama’s wild weather

• Lightening is frightening

• Hurricanes in Alabama

• Preparing for evacuation

• Flooding can be deadly

• Electric generator safety

The handbook is available as a free download from iBooks and online at www.aces.edu/emergency.