Here are tips from Port St Lucie that are relevant to anyone in the Treasure Coast area.
The City of Port St. Lucie is closely monitoring the path of Hurricane Elsa and is preparing for any potential weather impacts it could bring to the City. The City encourages residents to monitor the National Weather Service/National Hurricane Center for the latest updates on the storm track and intensity. The Office of Emergency Management recommends all residents review their personal emergency plans and complete purchases for their emergency kits. Guidance on these and other helpful tips can be found on the City’s website.
Keep Your Kit Handy
As hurricane season picks up, make sure to create and stock an emergency kit. After an emergency, you may need to survive on your own for several days. Being prepared means having your own food, water and other supplies to last for at least one week. A disaster supplies kit is a collection of basic items your household may need in the event of an emergency. Visit the City’s website for a complete list of items and resources from the Federal Emergency Management Agency.
Be Prepared with Help from the City
With hurricane season underway, learning more about flooding in Port St. Lucie is integral in being prepared. The City has created a new brochure all about flooding. Helpful tips on how to prevent flooding and what to do during a flood are included. Visit the City’s website specific to flooding, to view the brochure and the new flood resources.
Flooding is a significant problem during a hurricane. How can you be prepared?
Flooding is a major concern during a hurricane. Contacting the Public Works department for recommendations regarding retrofitting and flood control techniques is an integral way of protecting your property against flood damage. Residents must also be aware of their homes and surroundings when flooding occurs. For more information on floods, visit the City’s website specific to flooding.
Be Aware of Gas Leaks
Flooding can damage electric or natural gas lines. and appliances causing a safety hazard. Make sure all appliances have updated fittings to prevent this hazard.
For those living in a flood hazard area, place these appliances above the base flood elevation line whenever possible.
Avoid Flooded Areas with Flowing Water
Drowning is the No. 1 cause of death during flash floods. Currents are deceptive: 6 inches of moving water can knock you off your feet. If you must walk in moving water, use a pole or stick to measure the water depth.
Driving in flooded areas can also result in drowning. Do not drive around road barriers during a flood. Turn around, don’t drown.
Stay Away from Power Lines and Electrical Wires
The second biggest cause of death after drowning in a flood is electrocution. Electric currents can flow through water. Report downed power lines to Florida Power & Light (FPL) at 800-401-6199. You can also call 1-800-4-OUTAGE (1-800-468-8243) to report a hazardous condition.
If you have any questions, please contact your local Emergency Management Office. For Port St Lucie, it’s pslem@cityofpsl.com
For Resource Information Visit: PSL Departments of Emergency Management for Hurricanes & Storms or the National Hurricane Center.
