During a Hurricane

If a hurricane is heading to your area, here are some tips to stay safe.

• Monitor your radio or television for weather updates and instructions from public safety officials. Upon activation of the Miami-Dade County Emergency Operations Center, all key service update information will be posted on www.miamidade.gov.
• Stay indoors, preferably in a room with few or no windows.
• Take your emergency kit and disaster supplies with you if you move from room to room or if you evacuate to a shelter.
• If flooding threatens your home, turn off electricity at the main breaker.
• Use flashlights, not candles or kerosene lamps, as your light source.
• If you lose power, turn off all major appliances.
• Avoid using the phone and do not take a bath or shower during the storm.
• Fight the temptation to go outside during the eye of the storm. There's only a brief period of calm before hurricane-force winds return.
• Keep children informed about what’s happening and watch for signs of stress.
• Keep animals in their carriers or crate.
• Get in the tub and pull a mattress over you to protect yourself from debris if your home begins to come apart.
• For seaport and airport passenger information, contact your local carrier about closings.
• Listen for advisories from local law enforcement agencies regarding roadways and bridges being locked down.