What do I do? How to Deal with the Aftermath of Hurricane Milton

After Hurricane Milton crosses Florida on Wednesday and Thursday, you may face a new set of challenges – some of them life-threatening. Here's how to handle some of the situations you may encounter.

I'm stuck in my home or my neighborhood. What do I do?

City and county officials have warned that law enforcement will be unable to respond to emergency calls for rescue during the peak of the storm. They will resume as soon as it is safe. The National and State Guard also have resources that can assist in rescue operations.

Officials warned against going outside until local authorities deem it safe to do so. Tampa Mayor Jane Castor said downed lines and other damage from the storm could pose unforeseen dangers.

If water enters your home, Pinellas County government recommends staying off the ground and sitting or standing on a bed, table or roof if necessary. Winds do not pose a threat as they will if the storm passes through.

FEMA urges all residents to stay away from floodwaters, whether on foot or by car. It can carry a load of underground or collapsed power lines or pose hazards ranging from stray animals to toxic chemicals and waste.

Tampa Electric spokeswoman Mary Lou Carn warned against touching anything that may have come into contact with downed power lines and recommended unplugging electronic devices not used to protect against surges.

I have no cell service. What do I do?

After Hurricane Helene, many people in affected areas did not have access to cell phone service. You may be able to make calls or send texts over Wi-Fi networks, which Spectrum says will be available.

Some phone manufacturers offer options for making emergency calls or sending messages via satellite.

iPhones: iPhone 14 models and later have the ability to connect to satellites and send texts if the phone has iOS 18 downloaded. To connect to a satellite, Apple's website says to open the connection wizard in Control Center or the Settings app and select “Satellite.” Satellite messaging is useful after the storm passes because it requires staying outside with a clear view of the sky and horizon.

Older models can still make emergency SOS calls by pressing and holding the side button and volume down button at the same time until an emergency SOS slider appears that allows you to make calls.

You may also be able to text 911 from an iPhone or Apple Watch and activate an emergency mode for 30 minutes.

Pixel phones: Google's website says that the Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, Pixel 9 Pro XL and Pixel 9 Pro Fold can connect to Satellite. Users should dial 911 and then tap “Satellite SOS” once the option appears. Google Messages is required as the default messaging app.

Androids: Androids can make emergency calls by pressing the power button five times, but cellular service or a Wi-Fi network is required. Samsung's website says Galaxy phones and tablets may work “even if you don't have service or a working SIM card.” Although your own cell phone provider is not required, a network signal is still required to call 911.

My water is out. What do I do?

Experts recommend saving water. The City of Tampa recommends keeping a washcloth and sponge for hygiene purposes and using damp sponges that can be disinfected with water and bleach to wipe dishes. Or use disposable plates, cups and dishes.

If you store both drinking water and industrial water for dishwashing and other purposes, separate them and consider labeling.

My house is badly damaged. What do I do?

Officials warn to clean up any damage or debris immediately.

Tampa Electric's Carn said contact with underground power lines, gas lines or downed pipes can be fatal.

Several legal websites recommend contacting your insurance agent and insurance company immediately for guidance on steps to file a claim.

Once it is deemed safe to return to the property, experts recommend documenting the damage with photos and videos and keeping a list of damaged items and the cost of temporary repairs.

If it is no longer safe to remain in your home, temporary accommodation will be made available.

After Helene, FEMA offered temporary relocation assistance from hotels and Airbnbs, up to 18 months of rental assistance and up to $42,500 for home repairs. The state offered trailers through the Florida Hope Line. The American Red Cross also provides temporary shelter in disaster shelters.

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