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From Mayor Felicia M. Brunson
Hurricanes are strong storms that cause damage and property threatening hazards such as flooding, storm surge, high winds and tornadoes. You can take steps to reduce the risk of serious disruption, injury or loss of life by making preparations. We want to do our part in helping you get prepared for a hurricane. Planning ahead can save time and lives in many types of emergencies. Even if you have taken some steps in the past to prepare, it is important that you revisit and update your communication plan and check your emergency preparedness kit for expired items. As your elected city officials, with the competent help of our city staff, this information has been prepared as another aid in assisting you to safely navigate through a hurricane if one is predicted for your area.
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The City’s priority is to clear major roadways of storm debris as soon as it is safe immediately following a hurricane. Other roads are cleared thereafter.
Recovery
Continue monitoring local news on the radio to learn if authorities have declared the area safe and to get updated information and instructions such as boil water advisories. You should also do the following:
- Inform other family members or contacts about your status.
- If you are returning home from another location, make sure the main electrical switch to your home is off before entering the structure.
- Be careful when entering a structure that may have been damaged.
- If you suspect a gas leak, leave immediately and notify the gas company.
- Report utility damage to the proper authorities.
Safety Tips
Many injuries occur after the storm. To avoid injury, use common sense and wear proper clothing, including clothes with long sleeves and long pants and safety shoes or boots.
Downed Power Lines: Stay away and do not touch downed power lines. Stay away from standing water that may have active electrical currents. Although you may be without power in your home/business, it does not mean the lines are not active.
Driving Around: If you must travel, treat all intersections as 4-way stops. Some roads may be restricted. Watch for debris on the road. Respect any curfews imposed by the authorities.
Generator Usage: Do not operate a generator indoors, on balconies or near open windows. Make sure that the generator is running in a well-ventilated area. Many people die from carbon monoxide poisoning every year due to improper generator use. Read instructions and use with caution.
Tree Trimming: Use caution when operating power equipment (i.e. chain saws). Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and wear appropriate safety gear (i.e. goggles and gloves). Stay clear of those using manual or other tools to cut trees. Avoid back injuries by using mechanical assistance to move debris that is too heavy to move manually.
Emergency Building Permits
If your home is deemed uninhabitable by the Building Official, you must leave your home until proper repairs are completed. Contact the City’s Building Department for information regarding emergency building permits due to storm-related damages at 954.989.2688.
Direct Assistance
Individuals and families may receive direct assistance from organizations including American Red Cross, Salvation Army and other volunteer groups that provide food, shelter, supplies and assistance with cleanup.
