We're used to hurricanes. We grew up living at the Jersey shore and we survived some beauties like Hurricane Donna. But Irene sounds like it will really be dangerous.
So we have made preparations: batteries, food, water, plastic, taking in lawn furniture and flags, trashcans in the garage.
Good hurricane plan here:
http://www.inthpa.com/Whattodo.asp
And of course I have battery operated Ottlite so I can hand sew if the power fails.
Good luck to all of you in the storm.