Purpose and Introduction
The Palm Beach Community College administration and staff recognize their responsibility for the life safety of individuals associated with the college as well as the protection of college property in the event of a major storm. This Hurricane Preparedness Plan is in place to provide direction for those involved in these efforts. The plan is not all-inclusive, however, and may be supplemented by additional actions.
Basic Hurricane Information
Hurricane season extends from June 1 through November 30. That is the period when climatic conditions are optimum for the formation and sustained movement of hurricane winds. The stages of hurricane announcements given by the National Hurricane Center are as follows:
Tropical Storm
Winds in excess of 39 mph can be expected
Hurricane Watch
Winds of at least 74 mph may affect the area within 24-36 hours
Hurricane Warning
Winds of at least 74 mph are expected in the area within 24 hours.
Decision to Close
The decision to close the College will be based upon the projection of a threatening situation. Bulletins issued by the National Hurricane Center, the Palm Beach County Office of Emergency Management as well as the Palm Beach County School Board will be considered in determining the implementation of emergency procedures. The President or Vice President of Administration and Business Services may close the college in advance of a hurricane warning depending on local conditions, however, classes will be canceled once a hurricane warning has been issued for Palm Beach County by the National Hurricane Center. The college Centers for Early Learning will close upon the announcement of closure by the School Board. All facilities in the district will be closed upon announcement of the decision to close the college.
Once the order to close the college has been issued, the Facilities Department will be installing shutters, powering down A/C units, placing trash and paper bins inside, securing buildings, placing sandbags, locking elevators and doing other duties related to storm preparation. Non-Facility personnel should no longer be present on the campus during this phase of preparation.
Post Storm Recovery
Authorized college personnel will conduct damage assessment and debris removal during the first daylight hours following the cessation of storm winds. Employees not authorized to be on the campus during this damage assessment should monitor local media sources for information about re-opening. Upon returning to the college, employees are to reverse preparations completed during the Hurricane Watch. Report damage or requests for assistance to the Facilities Department.
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