Hurricane Safety

By District Chief Todd Draizin

Broward Sheriff Office Department of Fire Rescue and the City of Weston want to remind you to be prepared this hurricane season! As a resident of Weston, you are no stranger to the threats posed by hurricanes. Each year, the state braces itself for the Atlantic hurricane season, which runs from June 1 to November 30. Hurricanes can cause significant damage to property and infrastructure and put the lives of people in the affected areas at risk. As such, it is essential to be well-prepared and informed on hurricane safety tips to mitigate the damage and stay safe. Here are some hurricane preparedness and safety tips for Weston, Florida.

Have a Hurricane Emergency Kit

A hurricane emergency kit is a collection of essential items you will need during and after a hurricane. It should include a three-day supply of water, non-perishable food, a first aid kit, prescription medications, and personal hygiene items such as soap and toothpaste. Additionally, it is important to have cash on hand since ATMs and credit card machines may not be operational during or after a hurricane. Additional items or suggestions can be found at https://hurricanesafety.org/ prepare/hurricane-safety-checklists/

Prepare Your Home

Trim trees and remove loose branches and clear your gutters and downspouts of debris long before the threat of a storm. Approaching storms are not the time to landscape. Consider installing storm shutters or impact-resistant windows to protect your home from flying debris. In case of a mandatory evacuation order, turn off gas and electricity at the main breaker or shut-off valve.

Stay Informed

Stay informed about the hurricane's progress by listening to local news stations, weather updates, or using a weather app on your phone. You can also visit the National Hurricane Center at https://www.nhc.noaa.gov/

If a hurricane warning is issued, it is important to heed the advice of local authorities and evacuate if necessary. You can also sign up for emergency alerts from Weston’s’

Code red alert system https://www.westonfl. org/residents/emergency-preparedness/ codered-emergency-notification or county's emergency management system at https://www.broward.org/Emergency/Pages/ AlertBroward.aspx.

Evacuate When Necessary

If local authorities issue a mandatory evacuation order, it is crucial to evacuate immediately. The National Hurricane Center recommends that you leave early and avoid the traffic congestion that can accompany mandatory evacuations. Identify your evacuation route ahead of time and make arrangements for transportation and accommodation.

Plan for Your Pets

Include your pets in your hurricane preparedness plan. Identify pet-friendly hotels or shelters along your evacuation route and have a pet emergency kit ready, which should include food, water, medications, and a leash or carrier. Keep your pets indoors during a hurricane to avoid the risk of injury or separation.

Stay Safe During and After the Hurricane

During the hurricane, stay indoors, away from windows, and in a room with no windows if possible. Do not use candles or open flames for lighting, as they can cause fires. After the hurricane, wait until local authorities declare it safe to venture outside. Avoid downed power lines and flooded areas, and do not drink or use tap water until it is declared safe to do so.

Hurricanes are a significant threat to life and property. The Men and Women of the Broward Sheriff’s Office of Fire Rescue and Emergency Medical Services want you to remain safe. By being well-prepared and informed, you can reduce the risk of injury and damage to your property.

▸ For more information, please contact District Chief Todd Draizin at Weston Fire Station #81 at 954-389-2090 or by email at Todd_Draizin@Sheriff.org.