After a Storm
This section guides residents through the recovery period after a hurricane passes. Expect potential discomfort as services may be disrupted for an extended time.
Obey Orders: Strictly follow instructions from St. Johns County Emergency Management and law enforcement. Obey all curfews.
Avoid Disaster Areas: Do not sightsee; it hinders recovery and is dangerous.
Driving Caution: If driving, use extreme caution. Beware of road/bridge washouts. Treat broken traffic signals as four-way stops.
Downed Power Lines: Avoid all downed power lines. Assume they are live and dangerous. Report them to utility companies immediately.
Mental Health Support: It's normal to experience stress. Seek support from the Disaster Distress Helpline (800-985-5990) or text "TalkWithUs" (English) / "Hablanos" (Spanish) to 66746.
Safety Checks Before Re-entry: Do not re-enter your home until authorities declare it safe. Inspect for structural damage, gas leaks (rotten egg smell), and electrical hazards. Do not enter if unsafe.
Document Damage: Take extensive photos and detailed notes of all damage for insurance claims before any cleanup or repairs.
Check Utilities: Before turning them back on, carefully inspect electric, gas, and water connections for damage. If unsure, wait for a professional.
Hazard Avoidance: Actively avoid common post-hurricane hazards like downed power lines, contaminated floodwaters, and mold.
Water Safety: Use only safe, clean water for drinking and food. Boil or treat water if notified or in doubt.
Food Safety: Check refrigerated/iced food for spoilage due to power outages.
Mosquitoes and Wildlife: Be aware of increased mosquitoes and displaced wildlife; take precautions.
Cleanup Safety: Wear protective gear (gloves, masks, sturdy shoes) to avoid injury or exposure to hazardous materials or mold.
JEA Electric Service (Power Outages): 904-665-6000 (Text “OUT” to MyJEA (69532) if registered).
FPL (Florida Power & Light): 1-800-4-OUTAGE (1-800-468-8243)
City of St. Augustine Utility Concerns (Water, Wastewater, Stormwater): 904-825-1044 (after-hours)
St. Johns County Utilities: Check the St. Johns County website for specific information
Filing Claims: Contact your insurance provider promptly with thorough documentation. Remember, standard homeowner's insurance typically does not cover flood damage.
Florida Department of Financial Services: A critical resource for financial recovery. Their Insurance Consumer Helpline is 1-877-MY-FL-CFO (693-5236). Call them BEFORE signing anything related to storm damage or repairs.
FEMA Assistance: Individuals, families, businesses, homeowners, and renters may be eligible for federal disaster assistance. Visit www.DisasterAssistance.gov or www.fema.gov.
Price Gouging: Report unconscionable price increases to the Attorney General's Office at 1-866-9NO-SCAM (1-866-966-7226).
Safe Cleanup Practices: Wear protective gear.
Debris Disposal: Follow local guidelines from St. Johns County and City of St. Augustine for separating and placing debris. Do not mix debris types.
Hazardous Materials: Properly dispose of chemicals, paints, and damaged electronics per local regulations.
Community Resources: Utilize support services from organizations like the St. Johns County Long Term Recovery Organization (LTRO) and VOAD for assistance.
Helping Others: Participate in community recovery efforts; volunteer and assist neighbors.
If you arrived at a shelter via public transportation, return transportation will be provided when safe and possible.