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The storm has passed. Whether you rode it out in your apartment, your home, or a friend’s place across town, the work of getting back to normal starts now. For most of us on the Treasure Coast, that means stepping outside carefully, checking on our neighbors, and taking the right steps to protect ourselves and our property before jumping into cleanup mode.

Here’s what FEMA recommends — and what Indian River State College wants every member of our community to keep in mind.

Stay Safe

Resist the urge to head outside the moment the winds die down. The storm may have changed things that aren’t visible from your window.

Before going outside, look for downed power lines, gas lines, foundation cracks, and other exterior damage. If you smell natural gas or propane, or hear a hissing noise, leave immediately and contact the fire department.

Do not walk, swim, or drive through flood water. Turn around, don’t drown — just six inches of fast-moving water can knock you down, and one foot can sweep a vehicle away. Flood water can also be electrically charged from downed lines and may hide debris you can’t see.

Check ceilings and floors for signs of sagging — water trapped there may be unsafe to walk on. And watch for snakes, insects, and other animals that may have moved onto your property during the storm.

Check Your Space

Once it’s safe to move around, take a careful look before diving into cleanup — whether you’re in an apartment, a rental house, or staying with someone else.

Check ceilings and floors for signs of sagging — water trapped there may be unsafe to walk on. Turn off electricity and water until you or your landlord can confirm they are safe. Never operate any electrical appliance or circuit breaker while standing in water.

Watch for snakes, insects, and other animals that may have entered during the storm. If your space was flooded or experienced significant humidity, assume there is mold growth — exposure increases health risks for those with asthma, allergies, or other breathing conditions.

If you rent, damage to the building itself is your landlord’s responsibility — but damage to your personal belongings is yours. Before touching anything, photograph all damage to your space and your property. Your renters insurance — if you have it — and any FEMA assistance programs will need that documentation.

If your space is unsafe to live in, contact your landlord immediately and document everything in writing.

Campus Reopenings

Your safety always comes first. Once the storm passes, check irsc.edu, RiverAlerts, and your Indian River State College email for updates on campus reopening, make-up work, and any extended deadlines.

Indian River State College Is Here

If you’re dealing with housing displacement, loss of belongings, or just the weight of getting through it — please reach out. You are part of this community, and this community takes care of its own.

Resources

Your county emergency management office is the best source for what’s available locally after a storm — including debris pickup schedules, boil water advisories, shelter locations, and links to local nonprofit recovery organizations. These resources change storm by storm, so check your county’s website first.

FEMA Resources

Many students and renters don’t realize that isn’t just for homeowners – you  may be eligible too. Visit the FEMA website for qualification and application requirements. Or call the FEMA Helpline at 1-800-621-3362.

One more thing: beware of scams. If anyone claiming to be an inspector cannot show you a badge with a photo or asks you for money, call law enforcement immediately. Legitimate FEMA inspectors never charge a fee.

• Disaster assistance:
• FEMA Helpline: 1-800-621-3362
• Hurricane guidance:
• FEMA App: free on iOS and Android