Prepare for Hurricane Season

Hurricane Season officially begins June 1, but the time to prepare comes in the weeks before.

National Hurricane Preparedness Week is May 5-11. The Broward County's Office of Emergency Management urges residents and visitors to begin pre-season preparations during this time, offering the following information for National Hurricane Preparedness Week with daily reminders and tips to help get you ready before the storm.

Know Your Risks

The journey to preparedness begins with knowledge. Hurricanes bring many hazards, including storm surges, tornadoes, rip currents, damaging winds, and flooding. Determine if you live in a flood-prone area or an evacuation zone and prepare accordingly

Prepare Before the Storm

Fortify your home before the storm clouds gather. Stock up on essential supplies-non-perishable food, water, medication-enough to sustain each member of your household for at least three days. Strengthen your home by trimming trees, secure outdoor belongings, and seal any vulnerable openings in your home's exterior.

Understand the Forecast

Know the difference between a Watch (storm impacts are possible) and a Warning (storm impacts are expected or happening), and rely on official forecasts from well-established media entities.

Be Ready to Move

When the winds howl and the skies darken, be prepared to flee at a moment's notice. Pack a "go-bag" with essentials-documents, medications, clothing-ready to grab and go. Know the location of nearby shelters, and plan for your furry companions, as many shelters may not accommodate pets.

Stay Protected

Whether you hunker down or seek refuge elsewhere, stay vigilant during the storm's fury. Shield yourself from its wrath; avoid flooded areas, seek shelter in sturdy structures, and refrain from unnecessary travel. Safety is paramount amidst nature's tempestuous ballet.

Exercise Caution After the Storm

As the storm clouds dissipate and the waters recede, a new danger emerges amidst the debris. Exercise caution in the aftermath; hazards abound, from downed power lines to submerged roads. Proceed with care, for the aftermath can be as treacherous as the storm itself.

Take Action Today

Preparedness knows no bounds; there's always more to be done. Explore Broward County's Hurricane A to Z Guide for additional insights and tips. Visit Broward.org/Hurricane for comprehensive resources on shelters, emergency checklists, and step-by-step guides for every stage of the storm.

Residents who may be at more risk due to a disability or have special medical needs are strongly encouraged to pre-register for the Vulnerable Population Registry or call the Special Needs Registry at 954-831-3902. Registration is open year-round.

Upcoming preparedness events:

In partnership with Broward County and the Museum of Discovery, residents are welcome to attend the Eye of the Storm exhibit at the Museum of Science and Discovery on Saturday, May 20 from 10AM - 5PM. This free event will feature interactive demonstrations, presentations by hurricane experts, the museum's Storm Center and live theater shows for all ages. Register here.

The Office of Emergency Management will host its annual Hurricane Preparedness Open House on Saturday, June 8 from 10AM -2PM at the African American Research Library and Cultural Center. All Broward County residents are encouraged to attend.

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