Pinellas County officials have issued crucial advice and resources for residents in the aftermath of Hurricane Milton. While the county was fortunate to avoid catastrophic storm surge, it did face hurricane-force winds and record rainfall overnight.
The released list includes essential guidance for residents:
- Avoid downed power lines and promptly report them to the power company.
- Avoid flooded areas and standing water, as they may contain live power lines, sewage, wildlife, and hazardous objects.
- Minimize road travel, and if driving is necessary, treat intersections as four-way stops if traffic lights are not operational. Do not attempt to drive through standing water.
- Reserve 9-1-1 calls for life-threatening emergencies only. Report non-life-threatening issues like downed traffic lights or damaged public infrastructure through SeeClickFix at pinellas.gov/SeeClickFix.
- Report property damage at disaster.pinellas.gov to facilitate recovery efforts.
- Exercise caution when using generators. Place them in well-ventilated outdoor areas, away from doors, windows, and vents. Never operate a generator in a garage, even with the door open.
- After home flooding, keep power off until an electrician inspects water-damaged outlets to prevent fire hazards.
These guidelines aim to ensure the safety and well-being of Pinellas County residents as they navigate the aftermath of Hurricane Milton. By following these recommendations, individuals can protect themselves and their communities from potential risks and hazards.
