Bob,

http://www.fema.gov/rrr/talkdiz/hurricane.shtm

Check the above link from FEMA under "Protect your property".

The key is to keep the wind out of the house, which means all windows and doors should be closed. This will keep your roof on which in turn will usually allow the structure to stand in all but Cat V storms.

The old wives tale about leaving a window open to equalize the pressure doesn't even make sense when you stop and think about it. Houses are not sealed to begin with - think about all of the electrical outlets that are open to the inside wallspace, which vents to the attic and out the soffits.

Protect the envelope of your house - that is what they need to be preaching.

Ken