What to Do After a Hurricane

In late September 2022, Hurricane Ian hit Collier County, Florida, and caused large-scale damage and flooding from storm surges, leaving buildings, roads, and properties submerged. The Naples, FL government assessed an estimated $200 million in damage to private homes and businesses, but the actual cost might exceed that value.

Hurricane aftermaths are often chaotic and stressful. We understand that you need all the help you can get, that’s why our technicians are ready anytime. ServiceMaster by Wright is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at (239) 329-8886 to assist with water, storm, and mold damage restoration in Naples, Florida.

While you wait for the professionals, here are 18 important things you can do after the storm passes.

After a hurricane strikes your area, here are the things you should do, according to Ready.gov:

Keep yourself up-to-date with the latest news.
Even after the hurricane or storm passes, keep watch for subsequent flooding and extended rainfall.
Hurricanes can sometimes separate families. This is where your family communications plan comes in handy. You can also contact the American Red Cross at 1-800-RED-CROSS/1-800-733-2767. This organization keeps a database that can be useful when looking for your family.
When getting in touch with the American Red Cross, contact the local chapter where you are staying for information and not the chapter located in the disaster area.
After evacuation, do not return home unless officials declare that it's safe to do so.
To find the nearest temporary shelter in your locality when returning home is not feasible, text SHELTER + your ZIP code to 43362 (4FEMA). Example: SHELTER 12345
If you require long-term housing, you can ask for help from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). They offer grants and services to help you repair your home or find replacement housing.
Hurricanes often cause subsequent flooding. Do not drive unless it's necessary and stay away from flooded areas, roads, streets, and bridges.
Watch out for downed, loose, or dangling power lines and alert your local power provider.
When trying to enter your home, practice caution and inspect the area for gas leaks, loose wires, and structural damage. Stay out if you smell gas, notice floodwaters remaining around the building, see signs of fire damage, or if authorities have yet to declare your home safe.
Document the damage to your home and its contents. If you have safety concerns, hire a qualified building inspector or structural engineer to perform an inspection before you enter your home.
Do not use open-flame candles as a light source. Use battery-powered flashlights instead. Bear in mind that the flashlight must be turned on outside the building to prevent igniting any gas leak present indoors.
Displaced animals are common after a hurricane. Be on guard against dangerous wild animals, especially venomous snakes. When probing the debris, use a stick.
Floodwaters can contaminate the water line. Avoid drinking or preparing food with water from the tap.
Check your refrigerator and throw out spoiled food. If you are in doubt, it's best to dispose of it.
When cleaning up, practice caution and avoid injuries by wearing proper protective gear.
Only use the telephone for emergency calls.
Never use a generator indoors to prevent the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.

Our Storm Damage Restoration & Repair Services at ServiceMaster by Wright

Contact Us for Emergency Storm Damage Restoration in Naples, Florida

ServiceMaster by Wright is available to provide support after Hurricane Ian through our comprehensive storm damage restoration services. Call us at (239) 329-8886 for assistance in Naples, Florida.

Due to the large volume of calls we are receiving during this time, you can send us a detailed message through our online contact form. We’ll respond right away.