AFTER THE STORM

• If you evacuated, return only when local officials announce it is safe to do so.

• Do not drive unless absolutely necessary as storm debris may be on the roadways making driving hazardous and roads may be closed for your protection. If barricaded or flooded, turn around. Do not drive into flooded areas as the depth of the water is not always obvious and the condition of the road under the water may not be safe.

• When traffic lights/signals are not working due to power outages, the intersections should be treated as a four-way stop.

• Standing water may be electrically charged from underground or downed power lines; report downed lines to FPL or Public Safety.

• Look for fire hazards such as flooded electrical circuits or submerged appliances. Look for electrical system damage. If you see sparks or frayed wires, turn off the electricity at the main fuse box or circuit breaker.

• Check for gas leaks. If you smell gas or hear a hissing noise, open a window and leave quickly. Turn off the gas at the outside main valve, and call the gas company.

• Check for sewage and water line damage. If you think sewage lines are damaged, don’t use toilets, call a plumber. If water pipes are damaged, don’t use tap water, call the Palm Beach County Water Utilities Department.

Blue Roof Program

• Check on neighbors after a storm to make sure they’re okay. Older adults are more at risk so just a moment of your time can mean a lot to someone who may need help.

• When it is safe to do so, assess any damages to your property (take photos to document) . Begin taking steps to minimize further damage from rain or standing water. If the street or parking area is flooded, check the inlets for debris and clear leaves and other vegetation, which will allow storm water to drain.

• Open windows/doors to ventilate and dry out your home and safely make immediate repairs that are feasible and will stop further damage.

• During power outages, running water and flushing toilets should be limited as lift stations could overflow. (If wastewater starts backing up inside the house, locate and remove plug on the clean-out outsidethehouse.Reinstallafterpoweris restored) .

• Use flashlights in the dark, DO NOT use candles as the open flame is a potential fire hazard.

• Contact management company (if applicable) and arrange for clearing and debris removal.

• Call 9-1-1 for emergencies only.

The US Army Corps of Engineers implements the blue roof program on behalf of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). Operation Blue Roof provides homeowners with free temporary blue plastic roof coverings for eligible homes damaged by a hurricane. This program allows victims back into their homes so that they can return to their routines as quickly as possible. After a hurricane, registration sites will be established in the County. Registrants must fill out an application and sign a right-of-entry form.

The Corps will employ contractors to install plastic sheeting on homes of pre-qualified applicants. The sheeting is for free-standing homes, not apartments or commercial establishments. The sheeting cannot be installed on tile or flat roofs. No individual tarps will be available. For additional information call toll free 1-888-ROOF-BLU (1-888-766-3258).