Hurricane season is here — keep current to stay current 

With the arrival of hurricane season, we want to remind you of helpful resources and upcoming events designed to prepare and support you in case of a tropical storm. We also encourage everyone to become familiar with the university’s emergency plans and take necessary precautions in advance of a forecast.

Upcoming Events

Stay informed and prepared for hurricane season — register for an upcoming disaster preparedness workshop!

Disaster Preparedness: Before the Storm | June 23 at noon
Hosted by UFHR Communications and Worklife and UF/IFAS
Join UF/IFAS Family and Consumer Sciences Faculty Agent Nelly Nelson for an informative webinar that will guide you through the essential steps to take before a hurricane. Learn how to create an emergency plan, gather supplies and stay informed about weather updates.

Disaster Preparedness: After the Storm | June 24 at noon
Hosted by UFHR Communications and Worklife and UF/IFAS
Join UF/IFAS Family and Consumer Sciences Faculty Agent Nelly Nelson as she goes over the steps to take after a storm, including assessing damages, contacting emergency services and beginning the recovery process.

Personal and Work Preparedness: Being a UF Hurricane Pro | June 26 at noon
Hosted by UFHR Communications and Worklife and UF Department of Emergency Management
Join the UF Department of Emergency Management to learn about personal, family and workplace preparedness. Get a behind-the-scenes peek of how UF prepares for hurricane season, learn how to create an emergency plan and stay informed during a storm.

UF Alert

UF’s key method of communicating with UF faculty, staff and students in emergency situations is the UF Alert system. To stay current on emergency notifications, you’ll need to ensure your location and emergency contact settings are up to date so you receive UF Alerts. Log in through ONE.UF and click on “Verify Contact Info” to update your profile and customize the UF Alert notifications you receive.  

Additional Information Sources

  • Anyone, including family members, may elect to receive UF Alerts for the Gainesville campus by downloading the GatorSafe app onto their mobile device. The app helps users make emergency calls, receive UF alerts and perform other functions that improve their personal safety and security.  
  • In addition to the UF homepage, which is the main resource for the latest information, updates will be provided via UF’s X and Facebook accounts. UF’s Sever Weather Updates website provides the latest information on weather alerts and resources to help you prepare for hurricane season. You can also monitor the UF Public Safety X feed. 
  • Frequently monitor local media (WRUF-TV [Cox Cable Channel 6], 89.1 FM, 103.7 FM and 850 AM) for storm updates and information from local officials.  
  • Information will be updated daily on UF’s Rumor Control Line: 1-866-UF-FACTS (866-833-2287).  
  • Live local coverage from the UF Weather Center is available at UFWeather.org. Updates will also be available via the Florida Storms’ Facebook page.  
  • Visit the UF Hurricane Hub for research, news, tips and more.

Before a Storm

  • Ensure your storm supply kit is stocked — instructions on how to build a kit may be found on the Emergency Management website.
  • Remove or secure outside items such as potted plants, grills and lawn furniture.
  • Fuel your vehicle.
  • Inform family and friends of your plan, especially if sheltering in a different location than usual.   
  • Review the UF/IFAS Disaster Preparation & Recovery website for more information on how to protect yourself, your loved ones and your property.

During a Storm 

  • Stay indoors and do not travel during the storm.  
  • If winds become strong, stay away from doors and windows. Take refuge in an interior room, closet or hallway.  
  • Do not use candles, which can increase fire risk. Consider LED lanterns, flashlights or other lighting alternatives.
  • Understand that emergency services and scheduled bus routes might not be able to respond or operate during the storm.  

Explore More Resources

  • Read this article to learn how to prepare the interior and exterior of your home before a storm hits.
  • An approaching hurricane can be a stressful event for children. Read this UF/IFAS article to learn how you can involve your children in the preparation process to help alleviate anxiety.
  • Before a storm hits, you want to be sure that you have non-perishable food items on hand. Read this article for a list of foods you can store at home.
  • Read this UF/IFAS article to learn how to protect your digital information before, during and after a storm.
  • Visit the City of Gainesville Emergency Management website for updates, hurricane preparedness resources and more.

Whether you are a seasoned expert in hurricane preparedness or this is a new experience, we hope this information helps to keep you and your loved ones safe. 

Published

Category Events, Feature, OneUF, UF Focus, Wellness, Worklife