After a Storm

Many disaster-related injuries occur in the aftermath of a hurricane. Here are some ways to stay safe:

  • Remain inside until local authorities say it’s safe to go outside. 
  • If you must go outside, watch for fallen objects and downed electrical wires; report downed power lines to Florida Power & Light. 
  • Inspect your home for damage, assuring that it’s safe to stay there. Check for gas leaks, if applicable. 
  • Contact your insurance agent. Take pictures of damage. Keep good records of repair and cleaning costs. 
  • Stay out of areas with extensive storm damage. 
  • Obey all curfew and emergency orders. 
  • Do not operate charcoal grills, propane camping stoves or generators indoors. 
  • Place piles of debris on the right-of-way and away from fences, mailboxes, drains, power lines and low-hanging wires. Do not place debris in vacant lots or in front of commercial properties, nurseries or farmland. 
  • If you live in an area where residential and commercial uses – particularly plant nurseries – are co-located, keep residential and commercial debris in separate piles. If you live on property not adjacent to a public road right-of-way, or live in a gated community, do not move debris to the nearest right-of-way until instructed by government officials. 
  • Be patient and careful. Cleanup after a storm can take time.
  • Report lost or damaged garbage or recycling carts for replacement by calling 311. 
  • Discard any refrigerated food you suspect is spoiled. 
  • Support relief efforts in other affected areas, monetary donations to established voluntary organizations, such as the American Red Cross, is the primary way to help. 

Report Power Outages- 1-800-468-8243


Flooding tips

Do not drive or walk through standing water. It may be much deeper than you realize and there may be hidden hazards. Following a storm, if flooding is affecting the interior of your property, report it by calling 311.


Price gouging

If a state of emergency is declared by the Governor of Florida or Miami-Dade County officials, price gouging regulations come into effect.


Price gouging is considered an “unconscionable price,” determined by comparing the price asked during an emergency with what was charged for the same commodity during the preceding 30-day period. To report price gouging, call 3-1-1.

Mosquito control


Rainy, wet conditions that often follow a hurricane can result in an increase in mosquitoes. To reduce breeding, check and empty standing water in children’s toys, untreated swimming pools, uncovered boats and watercraft that are not draining water, as well as from trash cans and lids. Remember the following to avoid mosquito bites:
  • Repair screening on windows, doors, porches and patios. 
  • Avoid being outdoors at dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are more likely to bite. 
  • Dress in light, long and loose clothing that covers the skin. 
  • Use insect repellents containing DEET. Learn more at www.miamidade.gov/mosquito and visit our Mosquito page. 

Water needs

  • One gallon a day per person for three days. 
  • Cats and dogs need one and a half gallons for each animal for at least three days.