The first and most important rule to follow during a hurricane is don't go outside! Be aware that the calm "eye" is deceptive; the storm is not over. The worst part of the storm will happen once the eye passes over and the winds blow from the opposite direction. Hurricanes can also spawn dangerous unexpected tornadoes.
Use the phone for emergencies only. Monitoring local television or radio reports can provide the latest storm information. Do not call 911 for information -- only call to report an emergency. For information on City services, Sunrise residents can call (954) 741-2580. This number will be staffed 24 hours per day during and after the storm.
During the high winds associated with a hurricane or tropical storm, emergency responders have to make the tough decision about when it is no longer safe for public safety and other emergency vehicles to remain on the road. Wind speeds that exceed tropical storm force make it difficult to control high profile vehicles, posing a danger to the safety of emergency personnel. At some point during a hurricane, the City may have to suspend public safety operations to protect the well being of emergency personnel. We would not be able to assist you during this time period. For your safety, please remain indoors.
Power Outages During a storm, power outages are very common. Residents who are fortunate enough to not lose power during a storm are encouraged to follow energy conservation measures to keep the use of electricity as low as possible. This can help avoid creating an overwhelming demand on the system, and prevent the need for rolling blackouts.
Top Safety Tips for a Blackout
Use a flashlight or a lantern for emergency lighting.
Turn off electrical equipment you were using when the power went out. When power comes back on, it may come back with momentary "surges" or "spikes" that can damage equipment such as computers and motors in appliances like the air conditioner, refrigerator, washer or furnace. Leave one light turned on so you'll know when your power returns.
Avoid opening the refrigerator and freezer in order to keep your food as fresh as possible. If you must eat food that was refrigerated or frozen, check it carefully for signs of spoilage.
Do not run a generator inside a home or garage.
Due to the extreme risk of fire, do not use candles during a power outage.
Keeping Food at Safe Temperatures Power outages also create concerns regarding the safety of refrigerated foods. As a general guideline, perishable foods should not be held above 40 degrees for more than two hours. By planning ahead, you can save your perishables.
What You'll Need
One or more coolers. Inexpensive styrofoam coolers are fine.
Stock enough food for at least three to seven days. It is important to include shelf-stable foods, such as canned goods and powdered or boxed milk. Your supply should also include special foods for infants or elderly household members.
A digital quick-response thermometer. With these thermometers, you can quickly check the internal temperatures of food for doneness and safety.
A non-electric can opener.
Cooking tools and fuel.
Paper plates and plastic utensils.
What To Do
Do not open the refrigerator or freezer. According to the American Red Cross, an unopened refrigerator should keep foods cold enough for several hours. A freezer that is half full will hold for up to 24 hours and a full freezer for 48 hours.
If you have space in your refrigerator or freezer, consider filling plastic containers with water, leaving about an inch of space inside each one. (Water expands as it freezes, so it is important to leave room in the container for the expanded water.) Place the containers in the refrigerator and freezer. This chilled or frozen water will help keep food cold if the power goes out.
If you use medication that requires refrigeration, most can be kept in a closed refrigerator for several hours without a problem. If you are unsure, check with your physician or pharmacist before the storm.
If it looks like the power outage will be for more than four hours, pack refrigerated medications, dairy products, meats, fish, poultry, eggs and leftovers into a cooler surrounded by ice or freezer packs.
If it looks like the power outage will be prolonged, prepare a cooler with ice for your freezer items.
What should be discarded after a power outage? As soon as the power returns, check the internal temperature of the food in your refrigerator with your quick-response thermometer. If the food in the freezer has ice crystals and is not above 40 degrees, you should be able to refreeze it. Perishable foods in the refrigerator should not be above 40 degrees for more than two hours. If the internal temperature is above 40 degrees, it's best to throw it out.
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