Media Release

ALACHUA COUNTY, FL – The Florida Department of Health in Alachua County advises following these guidelines during Tropical Storm Hermine clean-up and recover.

Carbon Monoxide Safety

• Never run a generator, pressure washer, or any gasoline-powered engine inside a basement, garage, or other enclosed structure, even if the doors or windows are open, unless the equipment is professionally installed and vented. Keep vents and flues free of debris, especially if winds are high. Flying debris can block ventilation lines.
• Never use a charcoal grill, hibachi, lantern, or portable camping stove inside a home, tent, or camper.

Preventing Foodborne Illness

• When the power is out, refrigerators will keep foods cool for approximately 4 hours. Thawed and refrigerated foods should be thrown out after 4 hours.

Preventing Fire Hazards

• Using battery-powered lanterns and flashlights is preferred.
• NEVER use candles.

Post-Flood Clean-up

• Clean up debris carefully to avoid injury and contamination.
• Chainsaws should only be operated in safe conditions (not in water soaked areas) and by people who are experienced in proper use.
• Lift heavy debris by bending knees and using legs to help lift.
• Wear shoes to avoid injury to the feet from glass, nails or other sharp objects.
• Avoid contact with downed power lines.
• Be alert to wildlife (snakes, alligators, etc.) that may have been displaced as a result of the flood or storm. If you see a snake or other wildlife, back away from it slowly and do not touch it. If the snake is in your home, immediately call the animal control agency in your county.

Mosquito-borne Illness Prevention

• Drain water from garbage cans, house gutters, buckets, pool covers, coolers, toys, flower pots or any other containers where sprinkler or rain water has collected.
• Discard old tires, drums, bottles, cans, pots and pans, broken appliances and other items that aren't being used.
• Empty and clean birdbaths and pet's water bowls at least once to twice a week. Protect boats and vehicles from rain with tarps that don’t accumulate water.
• Maintain swimming pools in good condition and keep appropriately chlorinated. Empty plastic swimming pools when not in use.
• Clothing - Wear shoes, socks, and long pants and long-sleeves. This type of protection may be necessary for people working in areas where mosquitoes are present.
• Repellent – Apply mosquito repellent to bare skin and clothing.

For more information visit www.floridahealth.gov or www.FloridaDisaster.org.

The 311 Rumor Control phone number is now active. Please use it to verify the most up to the minute information on Tropical Storm Hermine. For life-threatening emergencies call 911. If you see downed trees on a public road or right-of-way, call 352-955-1818 to report the situation. The appropriate agency will be informed and crews will be dispatched when available.

Residents are also encouraged to stay informed about major storm conditions by following Alachua County on Facebook and Twitter, and subscribing to the County’s press releases.