Question : 

When will the bridges/causeways close?        

Answer:

Bridges/causeways do not normally close except for structural damage, which may occur during a hurricane. Evacuation orders are issued well ahead of damaging winds giving everyone ample time to comply with an evacuation order. It is generally recommended persons not drive over tall bridges when winds speeds reach 40-45 MPH and above. 

Question:

At what wind speed does the causeway close?

Answer:

Bridges/causeways do not normally close except for structural damage, which may occur during a hurricane. Evacuation orders are issued well ahead of damaging winds. It is generally recommended person not drive over tall bridges when winds speeds reach 40-45 MPH.   

Question : 

After a storm when will I allowed back on the inland?

Answer:

Evacuated residents will be allowed back after emergency service personnel determine it is safe to do so. When allowed back, returning residents are urged to use caution and report any unsafe conditions to law enforcement or local fire department. Call 911 only for emergencies. 

Question : 

When should I board up my house?

Answer:

Protective measures should be initiated early. Monitor the storm progress through local media. A TROPICAL STORM WATCH or HURRICANE WATCH issued for our location indicates the possibility that you could experience tropical storm or hurricane conditions within 36 hours. This watch should trigger your family's disaster plan, and protective measures should be initiated, especially those actions that require extra time such as “boarding up”, securing a boat, voluntarily leaving the barrier island, etc. If an evacuation order is given, complete all protective measures as soon as possible and then evacuate.

Question : 

When should I evacuate?

Answer:

The person may evacuate voluntarily if they so choose, prior to an evacuation order. Once an evacuation order is given, people should complete protective measures as soon as possible and then evacuate.

Question : 

Will you check on my house?

Answer:

People often call, after having evacuated, and request city personnel to check their home or ask, “When can I return”. Please keep in mind emergency personnel are generally very busy during and after a storm event. It is simply not possible for them to stop what they are doing and make “house checks”. Listen and watch local media broadcasts for up to date information or visit our Community Emergency Status website (Click Here) . The website will be updated in a timely fashion.

Question : 

Do we have electricity or when will power be restored?

Answer:

Power outages can range from specific homes to wide areas. Please go to our  Community Emergency Status website (Click Here) for the latest information. To report power outages or to report a hazardous condition such as a wire down, call 1-800-4-OUTAGE (1-800-468-8243). Please stay away from downed power lines and always assume that they are energized and dangerous. You can also report

Question : 

I didn’t realize the storm would be this bad. Can you come and help me evacuate?

Answer:

If is it is an emergency where someone is hurt or injured, dial 911. If you need assistance evacuating after the storm has arrived and no one is hurt or injured, call the police department (773-4400) or fire department (773-4404) and assistance will be provided assuming conditions are safe for emergency personnel. It is our policy for the safety of emergency service personnel to halt normal operations after sustained wind speeds of 55 MPH. Requests for service after the cessation of emergency services will be handled on a case-by-case basis, with personnel safety as a priority. If conditions are unsafe for emergency service personnel to respond to your needs, you will be instructed to take protective measures. Personnel will respond to your needs as soon as it is safe to do so.

Prior to an event: If you have special medical and/or transportation needs, please register with Brevard County Office of Emergency Management by calling 321-637-4088 or you can obtain a Special Needs Registration Form via the Internet www.embrevard.com

Question : 

What streets are closed?

Answer:

Assuming several streets are “closed” - Specific street closure information should not be provided as this tends to encourage people to “joy ride”. Advise person that many streets are impassable/unsafe and they should refrain from driving in the area for their safety. Please go to our Community Emergency Status website (Click Here) for the latest information.

Question : 

Should I boil my water?

Answer:

If a boil water alert is known, provide that information to the caller. You should also encourage them to visit our Community Emergency Status website (Click Here) or www.embrevard.com for the latest information. Boil water notices will be issued by the water utility provider as needed and posted on these sites.