Decide now where you want to be during a hurricane. If you plan to travel, leave days in advance so you avoid the risk of getting trapped on gridlocked roads. Storms are notorious for changing direction and the last place you want to be at the height of the storm is stuck on the interstate in your car.

Fire Chief John Picarello:

It’s important for everyone to make arrangements before the storm for elderly family members or those with special needs. If your family member relies on electric-powered medical equipment, confirm now which shelters provide back-up emergency power. And make sure that you and your family have a 2-week supply of medications.

Special Needs Shelters are coordinated by Broward County’s Department of Elderly Services. Pre-registration is required. Special areas have been set aside for people with special needs Silver Trail Middle School shelters. Bring supplies for at least three days including food, water, nebulizer and oxygen equipment. Make sure you have a backup battery for ventilators and a backup oxygen cylinder. For assistance, contact the Pembroke Pines Community Services Department. In Pembroke Pines, we have four shelters located nearby: Fox Trail Elementary, Falcon Cove Middle, Silver Trail Middle, New Renaissance. Remember that not all shelters will be open during every emergency, so call the Broward County Hotline or monitor news stations.

 

Although Pembroke Pines is not in a coastal evacuation zone, some residents must make plans to evacuate:
• People who live in low-lying areas should seek shelter elsewhere. A large storm could bring a significant storm surge, causing flooding several miles inland. Heavy rainfall could also cause flooding inland.
• All mobile home residents must evacuate if a storm reaches hurricane status. In addition, mobile home residents may be ordered to evacuate if tropical storm conditions warrant.