10/10/2024
In the aftermath of a disaster, figuring out next steps can be daunting. Here's what to know and keep in mind after Hurricane Milton:
Safety Tips for the Immediate Aftermath:
- We understand recovery feels unimaginable. Try to remain calm, pace yourself, and prioritize urgent situations.
- If your area has been affected, emergency responders need telephone lines available to coordinate their response. Limit use to report life-threatening conditions and to call your emergency contact.
- Avoid driving immediately after the storm to keep roads clear for rescue and emergency vehicles. Return home only when local authorities advise that it is safe to do so, and check regularly for updates from local authorities — information can change rapidly.
- Stay away from flooded areas, where storm drains, culverts and ditches may not be visible and can cause injuries. If using a generator to power your home, keep it outside and away from doors, windows and vents to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.
Tips for Contacting Loved Ones:
- If you're looking for a loved one after Hurricane Milton and cannot contact them, visit our reunification resource at https://rdcrss.org/3BN4LZe and fill out the form. Please provide as much detail as you can to assist us in potentially contacting your loved one.
- Widespread power outages and limited connectivity can impede communication efforts. We recommend calling during off-peak hours for the best chance of getting through and sending a text message, which may go through when phone calls cannot.
How to Call for a Rescue:
- We do not have the expertise to provide search and rescue services. If you need help, please get to a safe place and call 911 to connect with trained professionals who can help.
How to Find a Shelter:
- If you need a safe place to stay, please come to a Red Cross shelter. You can find locations by visiting redcross.org/shelters, downloading the Red Cross Emergency app, or calling 1-800-RED CROSS.
Ways to Access Help and Resources:
- Our volunteers are working quickly to assess needs alongside local state officials. Immediately after a disaster, we focus on providing safe shelter, food, emotional support, and first aid.
- Even if you don't stay overnight, you can come to a shelter to shower, charge your devices, get food or access resources.
- Connectivity may be a challenge in many areas, but if you can, download the Red Cross Emergency app or visit redcross.org/gethelp. Our resources are there to guide you through your recovery.
- Many areas may be inaccessible due to flooding and infrastructure damage, and we'll work tirelessly to reach communities in need as conditions improve. In areas that become accessible, disaster volunteers will take emergency response vehicles through affected communities, assess damage, and distribute meals and relief supplies.
- For the latest updates on how the Red Cross is responding in your area, follow American Red Cross of Central Florida or South Florida Red Cross.