Nestled in the sunny city of Tampa, the University of South Florida is renowned for its beautiful beaches and warm weather. However, as all Floridians know, June 1 marks the beginning of hurricane season, drawing attention to the Atlantic Ocean until November 30. For those who have recently moved into apartments near USF and may be unfamiliar with hurricane preparedness, this guide offers essential tips for the upcoming season.
Monitor Weather Reports and Prepare Your Apartment
Before making any drastic decisions like evacuation, it's crucial to prepare your USF apartment and stay updated on weather reports. As storms approach, forecasts become more accurate, so begin your preparations well in advance.
Prepare Your Hurricane Kit & Stock Up on Essentials
One of the biggest challenges during hurricane season is knowing when to shop for supplies. News reports often show empty grocery stores and long lines at gas stations in the days leading up to a storm. The key is to start preparing before the season begins. As June approaches, ensure your hurricane kit is ready. It should include:
- Extra batteries
- Flashlights
- Battery-powered radios
- Portable chargers
- A first-aid kit
- A waterproof document holder
A week before a storm's projected landfall, stock up on non-perishable foods and gallons of water—aim for enough supplies to last at least seven days, as recommended by the USF Hurricane Preparedness guide. Additionally, subscribe to the University of South Florida alert system to stay informed about canceled classes and other important updates.
Safely Park Your Car Before the Storm
A few days before the hurricane hits, fill your gas tank to avoid the rush. Check your vehicle's oil and ensure it's ready for any emergency evacuation.
Talk to your leasing office about parking options to keep your car safe and accessible after the storm. If your community has a parking garage, park there for optimal protection. Otherwise, avoid parking near trees or light poles, and opt for spaces close to buildings to shield your car from high winds.
Preparing Your USF Apartment for a Storm
To ensure your apartment remains functional during and after the storm, consider the following steps:
- Water Storage: Fill buckets or your bathtub with water for handwashing and flushing toilets, as you may lose running water.
- Freezer Tricks: Place a glass of water in the freezer. Once frozen, put a penny on top. If the power goes out, the ice will melt, and the penny will sink, indicating that your food may spoil.
- Coolers: Fill plastic bags with ice or buy ice blocks to keep perishables cold in a cooler if the power goes out.
- Clear Balconies: Remove all items from balconies and patios, as they can become dangerous debris. Bring bicycles or scooters indoors as well.
- Unplug Electronics: As the storm approaches, unplug all electronics and move valuables away from windows.
Prepare for Flooding
Flooding is one of the most destructive effects of hurricanes. Check if your off-campus USF apartment is in a flood risk zone and familiarize yourself with evacuation routes. Print multiple copies of these routes and keep them in your hurricane kit. Additionally, compile a list of nearby shelters in case you need to evacuate.
Don't Forget Your Pets
If you have pets, they require special attention during hurricane preparations. Ensure your pet has a proper identification tag and keep vaccination documents in a waterproof holder. Stock up on enough food, water, medication, and puppy pads. If you need to evacuate, have a leash or pet carrier readily available.
During the Hurricane
Once preparations are complete, it's time to hunker down and wait out the storm. Stay calm and attentive to any changes in the weather. Keep away from windows to avoid injury from flying debris. Charge all your devices and, if you're with family or friends, have some cards or board games ready to pass the time.
Finally, ensure your hurricane kit remains packed with a detailed checklist and evacuation plan.
While hurricanes can be intimidating, being prepared will help you weather the storm with confidence. Keep an eye on the tropics this summer, and welcome to life as a Floridian!