Safety Tips During Hurricane Milton

Staying Safe During the Storm

As Hurricane Milton approaches, it’s critical to prioritize your safety and the safety of your loved ones. Follow these guidelines to stay protected during the storm, and keep these essential emergency contacts and resources handy.

1. Stay Indoors and Seek Shelter

Find a Safe Place in Your Home: Stay away from windows and glass doors. The safest place is usually an interior room, closet, or hallway on the lowest floor of your home.
Avoid Using Candles: If the power goes out, use flashlights or battery-operated lanterns instead of candles to prevent accidental fires.
Stay Informed: Keep a battery-powered or hand-crank radio to monitor storm updates and official advisories. You can also follow Central Florida emergency management agencies on social media for real-time information.

2. Emergency Contacts and Resources

Central Florida Emergency Management:
- Florida Emergency Information Line: 1-800-342-3557
- Florida Division of Emergency Management: floridadisaster.org
- Orange County Office of Emergency Management: 407-836-9140
- Seminole County Office of Emergency Management: 407-665-5102
- Osceola County Office of Emergency Management: 407-742-9000
- Brevard County Emergency Management: 321-637-6670
- Lake County Emergency Management: 352-343-9420

3. Evacuation Resources

Evacuation Orders:
If local authorities issue an evacuation order, follow it immediately. Pay attention to local news and weather updates to know if evacuation is necessary for your area.
Shelters:
- Find the nearest shelter: Contact your local emergency management office or check their website.
- Orange County Shelters: Orange County Shelter Information
- Seminole County Shelters: Seminole County Shelter Information
- Pet-Friendly Shelters: Check with local shelters to ensure they accept pets. Many counties offer pet-friendly shelters, but be sure to call ahead.
Power Outages:
- Report Outages:
  - Duke Energy: 1-800-228-8485 or duke-energy.com
  - Florida Power & Light: 1-800-468-8243 or fpl.com
  - Orlando Utilities Commission (OUC): 407-423-9018 or ouc.com
Stay Safe Without Power:
- Unplug appliances and electronics: This helps prevent damage from surges when power returns.
- If you use a generator: Ensure it is placed outside and away from windows to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning.
- Avoid using the oven or stove: Do not use them to heat your home during a power outage. Never use outdoor grills or camp stoves indoors due to the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.

5. Flooding Precautions

Stay Away from Floodwaters: Avoid walking or driving through floodwaters. Even shallow water can be dangerous, and it may be deeper than it appears or contain hidden debris.
Turn Off Utilities if Safe: If flooding is imminent, and it’s safe to do so, turn off your home’s utilities (electricity, water, gas) to prevent further damage.
Seek Higher Ground: If your area is prone to flooding, move to higher ground before floodwaters rise. If you must leave your home due to flooding, ensure that you do so safely and inform emergency services of your location.

6. After the Storm

Stay Indoors Until All Clear: Remain inside until local authorities declare it safe to venture out. Even after the storm passes, hazards like downed power lines, flooded roads, and debris can pose risks.
Inspect Your Home for Damage: Once the storm has passed and it’s safe to do so, inspect your home for damage. Document any damage with photos and report it to Verandah Properties through the tenant portal. This documentation will be important for insurance claims.

Emergency Preparedness Resources: