After the Storm

Assess - Return

  • Be patient - if you evacuated, access to affected areas will be controlled to prevent looting and injuries.
  • Roads may be blocked and trees and power lines may also be down
  • Local radio and television stations will be a key source of information concerning aid
  • If you evacuated, have valid local identification - access will be limited and proper, up-to-date identification will be required
  • Avoid driving - traffic signals may be not functioning
  • To report or track a power outage, call 1-800-4-OUTAGE (1-800-468-8243) or visit www.FPL.com/outage. Or, for up-to-date news and information regarding FPL overall restoration progress, go to www.FPL.com/PowerTracker; visitors can also go to FPL's Storm Center.
  • If, after power is restored, you need to report trouble with a street light, go to Street Light Trouble Reporting
  • Generator-Ready Business List -- List of businesses that are generator-equipped and may be open for business after a storm that causes a prolonged power outage. This is not a guarantee that the business will be open.
  • Questions about removing debris from canals or lakes, call the South Broward Drainage District at 954-680-3337.
  • Avoid Getting Scammed
  • Protection from Storm Chasers
  • Recovery, Repairing, Rebuilding

Safety Tips

  • Avoid downed and dangling wires when clearing debris and fallen trees - treat all lines as if they are energized
  • Beware of standing water - it may contain power lines, contamination, or other dangers.
  • Be careful with fire and avoid candles. Use battery-powered flashlights and lanterns
  • Regarding food -- when in doubt, throw it out
  • Check for gas leaks - open windows and doors to ventilate and dry your home
  • Use your telephone for emergencies only
  • If there has been flooding, have an electrician inspect your home or office before turning on the breaker
  • Use grills outdoors in a well ventilated area away from your home
  • Do not use power tools that you are not familiar with
  • Do not connect portable generators to building wiring - this could cause injury or death to neighbors or linemen trying to restore power. Plug appliances directly in the generator

 How to Use Generators Safely After a Hurricane
 
 

Choosing a Contractor after a Hurricane

Make sure they are licensed.  Type their company name into the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation's website.  How long in business? Division of Corporation website. What is their rating with the Better Business Bureau? BBB Database  Also check out:

Hiring a Roof Contractor After a Disaster

 FEMA Required - Debris Sorting

Expedite the debris pick-up process by sorting bulk and storm debris, as well as separating hurricane debris from vegetation debris.  Place separated debris piles in the swale away from powerlines, mailboxes, trees, hydrants, water meters, vehicles and storm drains. The graphic below in Spanish.

 

Debris