7 Ways Students can Plan for a Hurricane

As a student, planning for disaster often only goes as far as making sure you have enough in your bank account for that emergency shot of espresso. However, being a student in the Cayman Islands means that you will see your share of sudden flooding and high winds, especially during hurricane season.

The best way to protect life and property is to prepare for hurricanes in advance. And, make sure you follow those plans when a hurricane is approaching. As a student there are a few things to keep in mind this hurricane season. If the Cayman Islands is in the path of a storm or other disaster:

• 1. Know your instructor’s preferred method of communication.

  • If it isn’t clearly stated in the course syllabus or introduction, ask. Knowing how your professor is most likely to inform students about grading delays or other changes will make it less likely you’ll miss important information.



• 2. Check your University email.

  • Even if you’ve established another form of contact with your professor, you’ll need to know if campus administrative offices close or if staff members are evacuated. If you can’t reach your instructor, these emails will keep you up-to-date.



• 3. Make sure you’re signed up for the Community Warning System

  • The National Emergency Operations Centre (NEOC) Tel: (345) 949-6555 — (Only answered once the NEOC is activated during a threat or disaster)



• 4. Make a plan.

  • For you and your family’s safety, know how you’ll take shelter or evacuate in the event of an emergency. Memorize important contacts and make an emergency kit with essentials for both family members and pets.



• 5. Check in.

  • If a major event is forecast for your area, give your instructors a heads up. Otherwise, touch base as soon as you’re able. You and your family’s safety is top priority.



• 6. Back up your files

  • Save your files using a cloud service or backup device, like a USB drive, including notes, research, and completed work.



• 7. Prepare an Emergency Survival Kit

  • Preparing a hurricane survival kit in advance will save you having to rush around when there is a hurricane warning. The stores will run out of essential items fast if there is a hurricane warning. You will need to think about what you will need if you can stay in your home, as well as what you will need if must evacuate. Keep your hurricane emergency kit in a waterproof container.

  • Here’s a list of the basic things that every hurricane preparedness kit should contain:

We are committed to ensuring the safety of everyone on island especially our students and campus.  Know your risk, make a kit,  get prepared, and stay informed are just a few steps you can take to get ready for hurricane season. More information on how to prepare may be found at www.caymanprepared.ky or www.ucci.edu.ky/hurricane-prepared