What to do During a Hurricane

The greatest threat to personal safety exists during a storm and in the immediate aftermath when high winds can topple trees and produce deadly flying debris. Heavy rain can produce flash floods and storm surge can present another deadly threat. To stay safe in a home during hurricane, it is suggested that individuals follow these steps:

  • Stay inside and away from windows, skylights and glass doors. Find a safe area in the home (an interior room, a closet or bathroom on the lower level).
  • If flooding threatens a home, turn off electricity at the main breaker.
  • If a home loses power, turn off major appliances such as the air conditioner and water heater to reduce damage.
  • Do not use electrical appliances, including your computer.
  • Do not go outside. If the eye of the storm passes over your area, there will be a short period of calm, but at the other side of the eye, the wind speed rapidly increases to hurricane force and will come from the opposite direction. Also, do not go outside to see “what the wind feels like.” It is too easy to be hit by flying debris.
  • Beware of lightning. Stay away from electrical equipment. Don’t use the phone or take a bath/shower during the storm.

Indian River County Important Phone Numbers:

Law Enforcement/Fire/Ambulance 911

Emergency Services Public Information Ling
(activated during Disasters)
772-567-2129

Hospital Indian River Medical Center 772-567-4311

Hospital Sebastian River Medical Center 772-589-3186

Indian River County Dept of Emergency Services 772-567-2154

Emergency Management Offices 772-567-8000

American Red Cross 772-562-2549

Indian River County Building Dept. 772-226-1260

FP&L 800-4-OUTAGE

Vero Beach Utilities 772-978-5100

Salvation Army 800-725-2769

Government Access Channel 27 (Cable) 772-226-3852

Nikki Kalin
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