BROWARD COUNTY, FL - Hurricane Season officially begins June 1, but the time to prepare is now during National Hurricane Preparedness Week, May 5-11. Broward County's Office of Emergency Management urges residents and visitors to begin pre-season preparations now; it only takes one storm to change your life and our community. Tropical cyclones (hurricanes) are among nature's most powerful and destructive phenomena and National Hurricane Preparedness Week offers daily reminders and tips to help get you ready before the storm.
Sunday, May 5 - Know Your Water and Wind Risk. 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.
Monday, May 6 - Prepare Before Hurricane Season. Get your disaster supplies while the shelves are still stocked; a minimum of three days worth of non-perishable food, water, and medicine per person is recommended. Strengthen your home - trim trees and seal outside wall openings.
Tuesday, May 7 - Understand Forecast Information. 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.
Wednesday, May 8 - Get Moving When a Storm Threatens. Have a "go-bag" ready with your important items to take with you if you need to leave in a hurry. Determine where your closest shelters are and consider your pets as many public shelters don't allow them.
Thursday, May 9 - Stay Protected During Storms. Whether you've evacuated or sheltered in place, know what to expect from storm hazards. Remember not to drive through floodwaters.
Friday, May 10 - Use Caution After Storms. Once a storm has passed, many dangers remain. Consider the likelihood that communications and help may not be available. Clean up safely.
Saturday, May 11 - Take Action Today. Even if you're sure you're prepared, check out the County's Hurricane A to Z Guide for more tips and ideas you may not have thought of, and visit Broward.org/Hurricane for information on shelters, emergency checklists, and what to do before, during, and after a 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.
About Office of Emergency Management
The Office of Emergency Management develops and implements comprehensive emergency planning response, mitigation and recovery activities in order to save lives and protect property in emergencies. Technical assistance is available to develop and maintain emergency plans for all types of natural and technological hazards. Free training and presentations on emergency management related issues are available on request. For more information, visit our website, follow us on X: @ReadyBroward, like us on Facebook.com/BrowardEMD or call 954-831-3900.
May 5, 2024
MEDIA CONTACT: Clay Pacheco, CEM, Director
Office of Emergency Management
954-831-3900
ESF5@broward.org