ERIE, Pa. --- May 19, 1999 --- We know their names like they are our friends: Andrew, Fran and Hugo. As yet another hurricane season approaches, we hope the next generation of named storms does not wreak havoc on the land and lives of people living in coastal regions.

The peak hurricane season is from June 1 to November 31, but year-round education and drills can help people avoid and cope with the potential devastation. Erie Insurance offers the following tips to help people protect themselves, their families and their property before, during and after a hurricane:

Before a Hurricane . . .

• Listen to your local radio or television station for weather updates.
• Prepare a hurricane evacuation kit with the following items: battery-operated transistor radio, flashlight and extra batteries, cash, credit cards, and identification; spare house and car keys, maps, utility shut-off instructions; bottled water, canned food and manual can opener, medications, list of doctors and first aid kit, change of clothing, rain gear, sturdy shoes.
• Complete an itemized inventory of your furnishings and personal belongings and place with insurance policies, legal documents and other valuables in a fireproof and/or safe deposit box. Update your inventory every time you move or every 2-3 years.
• Board, shutter or tape windows to prevent breakage and injuries.
• Remove diseased or damaged tree limbs before the threat of storm.
• Move valuables and furniture to upper floors in case of flooding.
• Bring in outdoor items such as furniture, gas grills, toys, etc.
• Turn refrigerator to maximum cold and only open when necessary.
• Fill your car's gas tank.
• Move or secure your boat.

During a Hurricane . . .

• If ordered to evacuate, obey immediately.
• Keep phone numbers and road maps handy.
• Stay away from flood waters.
• If your area is not advised to evacuate, prepare to stay inside, away from windows.
• If the storm worsens, take shelter in a closet or bathroom without windows. Protect yourself with a mattress.

After a Hurricane . . .

• Don't go outdoors or return to an evacuated area until authorities issue an "all clear".
• Call your ERIE Agent or nearest branch office to report damage as soon as possible. After business hours, contact ERIE's After Hours Service at (800) 367-3743.
• Assess the damage to your property and make temporary repairs to prevent further destruction.
• Cover broken windows and damaged roof coverings immediately.
• Remove standing water from your home.
• Clean exterior drain pipes to prevent drainage problems and roof leaks.
• Hold off on permanent repairs until your Erie Insurance adjuster approves your reimbursement.
• Keep all receipts related to temporary repairs and temporary housing.
• Check food and water for spoilage.
• Use the phone for emergencies only.

With nearly 2.5 million policyholders, Erie Insurance Group is the 17^th largest property/casualty insurance group, and group member Erie Insurance Exchange is the 12^th largest insurer of private passenger automobiles in the country. Erie Insurance Group includes seven companies operating in 10 states and the District of Columbia. Erie Indemnity Company (NASDAQ - ERIE) is the management company for Erie Insurance Group.