Friday, October 9, 11:55 p.m.

As Santa Rosa County begins recovering from the impacts of Hurricane Isaias, residents are reminded that dangerous conditions remain after the storm. Downed power lines, flooding, damaged utility systems and other hazards can pose serious risks, even after weather conditions begin to improve.

Residents should follow guidance from local officials and take the following precautions to protect themselves and their families.

Wait for official clearance.

Stay where you are until local authorities confirm it is safe to leave or return to your area. Follow updates from Santa Rosa County Emergency Management and other official sources before returning to evacuated areas.

Stay away from downed power lines.

Treat all fallen, dangling or submerged power lines as live. Keep a safe distance and report downed lines to your utility provider. Never attempt to move or touch a power line.

Avoid floodwaters.

Never walk, swim or drive through standing or moving floodwater. Just 12 inches of rushing water can carry away a vehicle. Floodwaters may also conceal debris, sharp objects, downed electrical lines and sewage.

Use generators and fuel-burning equipment safely.

Never operate portable generators, camp stoves or grills inside a home, garage or other enclosed space because of the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. Generators should be placed outdoors at least 20 feet from homes and other structures, with exhaust directed away from doors, windows and vents.

Use flashlights instead of candles.

Use flashlights or battery-powered lanterns for lighting. Avoid candles and other open flames, as damaged gas lines or other hazards may increase the risk of fire.

Make sure drinking water is safe.

Do not assume tap water is safe to drink or use for cooking following storm impacts. Follow instructions from your water provider, including any boil water notices. Use bottled water or boil water as directed until officials confirm the water is safe. Contact utility providers for service issues.

Utility updates

Residents should contact their utility providers directly regarding power, water, internet and other service disruptions. Do not call 911 for utility service issues. The 911 system should be reserved for emergencies requiring immediate assistance.

Citizen Information Center remains open.

The Santa Rosa County Citizen Information Center remains open to assist residents with questions and provide information. Residents may call 850-983-4636 for assistance.

Santa Rosa County encourages residents to remain vigilant, check on neighbors when it is safe to do so, and continue monitoring official Emergency Management communication channels for the latest information and recovery guidance. For additional updates, follow Santa Rosa County Emergency Management on Facebook and visit the County's official website.