HURRICANE PREPAREDNESS FOR DORM RESIDENTS

Hurricane season is officially from June 1 through November 30 each year.  In preparation, TSTC Harlingen summer semester dorm residents need to be fully aware of college hurricane preparedness procedures.

TSTC Harlingen evacuates its campus, including all housing residents, 48 hours ahead of hurricane landfall, regardless of the category of hurricane.  All students will be notified through the emergency notification system.  Notices will also be placed on the college web site and in major media outlets.

All dorm residents will be required to vacate their dormitories by an announced date and time.  Residents should empty their refrigerators as electricity will be turned off, secure personal belongings, and leave the campus by that deadline.  Immediately following the evacuation deadline, all dorms will be checked by College Police and padlocked.  Residents may not return to their dorms until the “all clear” notice is given through the emergency notification system and padlocks removed. 

It is essential that all summer residents are registered in the college emergency notification system and have a hurricane preparedness plan that includes alternate living arrangements.

Residents in need of alternate housing during an evacuation period may request transportation to and housing at the TSTC Waco campus.  Qualified drivers from the TSTC Waco campus will transport TSTC Harlingen housing evacuees and their qualified spouses and dependents in 15-passenger vans to TSTC Waco housing where they will receive free housing.  These residents are required to attend a mandatory orientation at which they will be provided information about the evacuation.  Residents will provide their own personal toiletries, medications, entertainment, towels, and linens.  Three meals/day will be provided at the TSTC Waco dining facility located within walking distance of the dormitory at no charge to the evacuee although the following dollar limits/meal will be in effect:  $5/breakfast, $8/lunch, and $8/dinner.  The evacuee will pay the difference if the meal selection exceeds maximum amounts.  Evacuees will use their Higher One swipe card at the dining facility.  Spouses and dependents will be issued a swipe card prior to the evacuation.  Evacuees will be subject to all rules and regulations of TSTC Waco Housing and under the supervision of the TSTC Waco Housing Supervisor.  Transportation back to the TSTC Harlingen will also be provided by TSTC Waco drivers when it is safe to return.  Evacuees will be notified of details related to the return trip through the emergency notification system.

To request alternate housing in the event of a hurricane, residents must

·         Attend a mandatory orientation session

·         Complete the Housing Evacuation Release Form

·         Provide official government identification to clear the Border checkpoint

·         Be registered for the college emergency notification system

·         Be at the pick-up and return locations at the prescribed time

For more information, contact the Housing Office.