In light of Hurricane Mathew, North Broward Technical Center has cancelled classes Wednesday, October 5, Thursday, October 6,2016 and Friday, October 7, 2016. The school will close Thursday, October 6, 2016 until further notice.  Students, faculty, and staff should monitor hurricane updates through the North Broward Technical Center website, email, and social media.

In order for NBTC Alert System to be most effective, students, faculty, and staff members should review their contact information and update it as necessary:

FOR STUDENTS:
1. Send your most updated demographic information via email, kmjerkins@nbtechcenter.com

FOR FACULTY / STAFF:
1. Send your most updated demographic information via email, mgonzalez@nbtechcenter.com

Although South Florida has not been impacted by a storm in several years, it is important to remain prepared and informed. Below you will find several websites that provide important information that will help us all prepare for the challenges that often arise during a storm:

• Tracking Mathew – http://www.nhc.noaa.gov
• Tropical Cyclone Preparedness Guide:
  • http://www.nws.noaa.gov/os/hurricane/plan.shtml
  • www.readysouthflorida.org
• NHC Outreach Resources: http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/outreach
• How to find your local emergency management agency: http://www.fema.gov/emergency-management-agencies

Additionally, the following tips can further assist you with your hurricane preparedness planning:

• According to the American Red Cross, hurricane watches are issued when hurricane conditions are a threat within 48 hours and are delivered to encourage the public to prepare and get ready if conditions suddenly change. Hurricane warnings are issued when hurricane conditions are expected within 36 hours and encourage the completion of preparations and evacuation if directed to do so by authorities.

• Gathering non-perishable supplies like batteries, flashlights, bottled water and easy to prepare foods throughout the year will help keep a hurricane supply kit stocked. The American Red Cross advises to have at least three days’ worth of food and water and a seven day supply of medication on hand in case of an emergency
• Creating a family emergency plan will allow families the opportunity to decide who to contact in case of a crisis and where to go if an evacuation is needed. To alleviate stress and worry, designate an out-of-state relative or friend as the point of contact. Make sure family and friends know who to call and keep their number on hand to inform them of updates and important information. In addition, you should become familiar with evacuation areas and have a clear plan of where to meet if family members are separated after a storm. For more information on creating a family emergency plan, visit http://www.ready.gov/emergency-planning-checklists
• Broward County residents can call the Broward County Emergency Hotline at 311 or 954-831-4000

We remain hopeful that South Florida will be spared from storms, but we will be prepared should our service area be threatened. We will continuously monitor weather reports and share key information with you. Any classes, appointments, and/or events scheduled are cancelled and will be rescheduled for a later date and time. An update will be sent via email and/or NBTC website for when school resumes.