Hurricane Preparedness

Before the Storm

The City of Coral Springs is dedicated to helping residents prepare for the potential impacts of a hurricane and offer these recommendations to properly prepare for a hurricane ahead of time:

Step 1.Properly prepare for a hurricane ahead of time:

  • Sign up to receive emergency alerts by texting keyword AlertCS to 888-777
  • Make sure to have enough food and water for each person for at least 5 days. We recommend having one gallon of water per person, per day. (If space permits, gather for up to 2 weeks.)
  • Fill your prescriptions and have medicines on hand
  • Store enough batteries and chargers for flashlights, cellphones and radios
  • Gas up your vehicle
  • Have extra cash in your wallet
  • Strengthen your home (trim trees on your property, get approved window coverings, secure all loose outdoor items) 
  • Prepare your pets: View checklist

Step 2.Shelters

The American Red Cross is responsible for opening shelters as need demands. Shelters and other programs may open in phases and residents will need to monitor local media for information. Coral Springs is not considered an evacuation area. More info.

Closest primary shelters for Coral Springs (currently not activated)

Pet Friendly Shelter

Due to space limitations, pre-registration is required. Must be done in person at the Humane Society of Broward, 2070 Griffin Road, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33312 or call for more information at 954-989-3977. Click here to visit their site for more hurricane information for your pets. Owners are required to show proof that they reside in a County evacuation zone and that their pets have up-to-date vaccinations, including a rabies shot.

Step 3.Special Needs Shelter/Emergency Transportation Program

Pre-Register with Broward County's Vulnerable Population Registry. This registry allows people who are disabled, frail or have health issues to register in advance with their city so that emergency workers may plan a better response to vulnerable residents in a recovery effort following a hurricane or other emergency.

Pre-register for evacuation transportation, if you think you may need it. As with shelter registration, you are not obligated to take advantage of the service if your plans change. To pre-register, call Broward County Emergency Management at 954-831-3902 (TTY 954-831-3940) or complete the registration form online.

After the Storm

Step 1.Preparing Debris 

After the storm has passed, residents are asked to follow these guidelines in preparing their garbage and debris for collection. These guidelines apply to all cities and unincorporated areas:

  • Place household municipal waste (garbage) in your garbage can or cart at the curb or swale on your next regularly scheduled day.
  • Keep waste separated: regular garbage separate from vegetative waste; and non-vegetative hurricane debris, such as broken fences and patio furniture, separate from garbage and vegetative waste. These items will be collected separately, with regular garbage being picked up first.
  • Do not place debris items in your garbage can or cart.

Step 2.Volunteer Assistance 

In the event that volunteer assistance is needed after the storm, we will need volunteers to fill out the following form. You may fill it out now and return via email to volunteer@coralsprings.gov. When assistance is needed, we will notify the community. Otherwise, please remain safe and secure at home. 

Step 3.Dealing with Damage

If your home experienced damage during a storm, the city encourages you to use only licensed and insured contractors. Unlicensed solicitation is unauthorized in the City of Coral Springs. Should you be approached by individuals representing a company or themselves for tree removal or home repair, please call the Coral Springs Police non-emergency number at 954-344-1800. After incidents of natural disaster, many criminals see an opportunity to victimize homeowners seeking assistance.  

Broward County Building Code Services urges City of Coral Springs consumers to be cautious and be sure to hire licensed individuals and companies to handle post-hurricane repairs, clean up, tree removal and other damage needs.