HURRICANE SEASON
June 1, 2009– November 30, 2009

Current Tropical Forecast – National Hurricane Center

When the National Weather Service declares a hurricane watch, it is the responsibility of every property owner to store indoors all loose objects, outdoor furniture, materials, or lash these loose objects to rigid construction.

Prior to a storm, contractors and property owners have the joint responsibility to ensure that the road right-of-way remains free of construction waste. All debris and materials must be weighted down with sand, lashed, or otherwise secured.

While under a hurricane watch, materials stockpiled on top of any structure under construction shall be permanently installed; or if this is not possible, materials shall be banded together and fastened to the top of the structure; or material shall be removed from the top of the structure and fastened at the ground; or material shall be removed from the site or stored in an enclosed structure on the site.

During the designated hurricane season, June 1st through November 30th, building materials shall not be loaded on a roof earlier than 20 working days prior to permanent installation.

Buildings and structures damaged by a storm shall not be repaired or altered until a permit is obtained or written permission is provided by the Building Official.

Notices issued by the National Weather Service of a hurricane watch are deemed to be sufficient notice to property owners and contractors. More information and specific wording can be found in Section 109 of the Florida Building Code as amended for Broward County. You can find this rule online at http://www.broward.org/codeappeals/boi01009.pdf

Hurricane Watch vs. Hurricane Warning

A Hurricane Watch is issued when there is a threat of hurricane conditions within 36 hours.

A Hurricane Warning is issued when hurricane conditions are expected in 24 hours or less.

• Fill up your car with gas

• Secure buildings

• Review evacuation plan

• Listen to a radio or television for official instructions

• Check your family’s emergency supplies

• Bring in outdoor objects

• Turn refrigerator and freezer to coldest setting

• Secure outdoor objects which cannot be brought inside

• Store drinking water in clean bathtubs, jugs, bottles and cooking utensils

• If in a mobile home, check tie downs and prepare to evacuate

• Stay inside, away from skylights and glass doors

• Keep a supply of flashlights and extra batteries handy

• Avoid open flames, such as candles and kerosene lamps, as a source of light.

• If power is lost, turn off major appliances to reduce power “surge” when electricity is restored.