Storm Preparation
Emergency Instructions for Residents
All students will be alerted by Housing staff to make preparations for a tropical weather condition or other emergency situation. Residents are requested to keep their radios tuned to WRUF FM 103.7, WRUF AM 850, or WUFT FM 89.1 and their televisions tuned to WCJB TV 20 on Cox Cable channel 7 for local advisories and general information. Residents may also check the Housing and Residence Life website, and the UF website, ufl.edu, for real-time updates. The following procedures are recommended in order to provide the maximum amount of safety and protection for residents.
Preparations for Tropical Weather
- All items including beds should be pulled away from the windows whenever possible. Desktop computers, printers, TVs, multi-plug adapters and other electronics should be placed off the floor, preferably in a closet. All electrical items should be unplugged, except refrigerators. Laptop computers and cell phones should be fully charged prior to the arrival of the tropical weather condition.
- Since the floors could get wet, all articles such as shoes, rugs, clothes, bags, suitcases, etc., should be placed off the floor on closet shelves or in dresser drawers.
- All loose objects should be placed in drawers or closets. Papers, books, etc., should not be left on the tops of desks or dressers.
- Valuables (computers, TVs, etc.) should be placed in closets or dresser drawers located away from windows. All doors should be locked when the occupants are not in the room/apartment.
- During the peak of the tropical weather condition, electronics including computers and televisions should be disconnected from electrical outlets, cable TV jacks, DHNet jack, phone/modem jacks and elevated above floor level.
- Make sure all windows are closed tightly. Do not open or “crack” windows in attempt to “equalize” or “balance” pressure within the room or building. Opening windows does not help with pressure. This only creates additional forces inside the building which can lead to structural damage. Open all blinds (regardless of style) and curtains. This is to permit as much light as possible to enter the room in the event of a power loss and to minimize damage should window breakage occur. Do not tape windows or modify or cover windows in any manner without permission from Graduate and Family Housing staff or Residence Life and Education Staff. In the event that winds are predicted to reach tropical storm force (39 mph or greater) residents are directed to remove any items away from under windows as a precaution against water leaks.
- Any resident who owns a car should see that the emergency brake is set. If you have an automatic, make sure the car is in park. If you have a manual (stick-shift), you should put the car in reverse gear. All windows should be closed and the car locked. All cars must remain in assigned parking areas.
- Each resident should provide his/her own flashlight in case of power failure. Do not use candles under any circumstances.
- Residents should provide themselves with necessary food items for a three day period. Items that do not require cooking or refrigeration are usually best.
Procedure During Tropical Weather
It is essential that all residents stay indoors throughout the entire tropical weather condition or other emergency situation. Residents must not leave their living units until directed to do so by the Graduate and Family Housing staff or Residence Life and Education Staff. During the peak of the storm, for maximum protection, residents should close room and/or bedroom doors and stay in the interior most point of the building away from windows and doors.