Hurricane season in the Atlantic Ocean runs from June 1 to November 30, but it is never too late to prepare for the impact of a severe weather event, especially in South Florida. Whether this upcoming hurricane is your first or your 40th, the key to mitigating the risks and potential dangers of a major hurricane comes down to one thing: planning.

When it comes to severe weather, no one can control the elements. But with help, everyone can put together a safe and efficient hurricane plan. That’s why we’ve assembled this list of tips to ensure that you will stay safe, secure, and supported while experiencing a hurricane. By knowing what actions to take, you drastically reduce your risk of life-threatening conditions and property damage – before, during, and after a storm.

The safety and protection of Broward College students, faculty, and staff – as well as their families – is of primary concern during preparations for an approaching hurricane. The Department of Safety, Security and Emergency Preparedness has worked to put together a Broward College Hurricane Safety Action Guide which is designed to serve as a quick reference guide for you. Below you will find hurricane safety tips, a tracking chart, safety information, as well as checklists to ensure you are prepared not only at Broward College but also at home.

Remember: Proper planning is essential. If a major storm makes landfall this hurricane season, make sure you’re well prepared, listen to local authorities, and most importantly, stay calm.

BEFORE THE STORM

Educate yourself and remain informed. When Broward College is threatened by a tropical cyclone, students, faculty, and staff will be notified of course cancelations and campus closures via BC Alert.

Take time to make an emergency plan. Ready.gov features the ability to make your very own plan, including templates designed specifically for your housing and family situations.

Fill your vehicles with a full tank of gasoline.

Gather supplies and build an emergency kit. You should be prepared and have supplies on hand to last up to 48-72 hours. A well-stocked hurricane kit should include:

• Water (one gallon per person per day for several days, for drinking and sanitation)
• Food (at least a several-days' supply of non-perishable food)
• Medications
• Pet food
• Insurance cards/medical records
• Battery-powered or hand crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert
• Flashlights
• First aid kit
• Extra batteries
• Cell phone with chargers and a backup battery
• Heavy rain gear

Don’t panic. Be confident in your hurricane plan and know that local, state, and federal authorities have your safety in mind.

DURING THE STORM

Listen to the radio or watch TV for information. Any order to find a hurricane shelter or evacuate will come from local authorities.

Be sure to remain indoors, stay away from windows, glass doors, and find a safe room (typically an interior room with no windows).

Do not go outside during the storm, even when it appears calm. Understand that as the eye of the storm passes, there will usually be a short period of calmness. However, waiting on the other side is rapidly increasing wind speeds and other hurricane forces.

WHEN THE STORM PASSES

Listen to the radio or watch TV for confirmation that the storm has in fact passed.

Be careful of debris, standing water, downed power lines, and other hazards. Do not wade into standing water!

If you must drive or travel, do so carefully and cautiously. Do not drive through any standing water; puddles are often deeper than they appear.

Look out for a BC Alert with updates on College  operations. When it is safe to return to campus, you will receive an “ALL CLEAR” notification via the BC Alert service.

For more information on hurricane preparedness and planning, visit the following resources:

National Hurricane Center | Federal Emergency Management Agency | Florida Division of Emergency Management | Broward County Emergency Management | Miami Dade Emergency Management