The storm has passed, but the danger hasn’t. More people are injured after a hurricane than during one — from generator fumes, chainsaw accidents, contaminated water, and heat exposure. Take it slow. Here’s what matters most in the first hours and days.
HOW FPL RESTORES POWER
Understanding the process can make the wait easier: FPL restores power from the largest damage to the smallest — main lines first, then neighborhood feeders, then individual streets. That’s why someone across town may get power back before you do. It’s not personal. It’s how the grid is rebuilt.
Track outages and estimated restoration times at FPL.com/outage or on the FPL app.
FOOD SAFETY
Once the power goes out, the clock starts on your food.
Refrigerated food is safe for about four hours if the door stays closed. A full freezer is safe for about 48 hours; a half-full freezer, about 24 hours.
When in doubt, throw it out. You cannot smell or taste the bacteria that cause food poisoning.
Do not eat anything touched by floodwater.
WATER SAFETY
If you are on a well or flooding has occurred, do not drink tap water until your city or Broward County gives the all-clear.
If a boil-water advisory is in effect, boil water for at least one minute. Use bottled or boiled water for brushing teeth, washing food and making ice.
CLEANUP & MOLD
Mold can start growing within 24 to 48 hours on wet materials. Move fast.
Remove wet drywall, carpet and insulation. Dry everything you can with fans and open windows.
Wear gloves, a mask and eye protection.
Take photos before removing damaged materials. Your insurance company will likely need them.
WATCH OUT FOR SCAMS
After every storm, unlicensed contractors move in. Never pay in full up front. Verify licenses at myfloridalicense.com. Be wary of door-to-door contractors. Don’t sign over insurance benefits. Report fraud: 866-966-7226.
KEY HURRICANE CONTACTS
Emergency: 911
Alerts & Shelters: broward.org/hurricane | 311 | 954-831-4000
Special Needs Shelter Registration: 954-831-3902 | TTY 954-831-3940
211 Broward: 211 (nonemergency help & local resources)
Florida Disaster Hotline: 1-800-342-3557
American Red Cross Disaster Help: 1-800-733-2767
FPL Outages: 1-800-4-OUTAGE (1-800-468-8243)
FEMA Disaster Assistance: 1-800-621-3362 | disasterassistance.gov
Florida Insurance Consumer Helpline: 1-877-693-5236
Florida Price Gouging Hotline: 1-866-966-7226
Broward County Animal Care: 954-359-1313
Disaster Distress Helpline: 1-800-985-5990
Poison Control: 1-800-222-1222
