Once the winds die down, the temptation is to immediately drive around to check on the city or drag everything ruined to the curb. To keep our roads safe and get our city cleaned up as quickly as possible, memorize these two post-storm protocols.
Rule 1: Treat All Dark Intersections as 4-Way Stops
If the power grid is down and you come across a traffic light that is completely dark or flashing red, Florida law requires you to treat that intersection as a 4-Way Stop.
Bring your vehicle to a complete stop.
Yield to the driver who arrived first.
Proceed only when it is completely safe to do so.
Bonus Safety Reminder: Treat all downed power lines as live and highly dangerous. Stay at least thirty feet away and report them immediately to 911 or your utility provider.
Rule 2: Don’t Mix Your Debris Piles
When our cleanup crews and contractors roll through your neighborhood, they use different specialized trucks for different materials. To make sure your home isn’t skipped, keep your curb separated into completely distinct piles:
Vegetative Debris: Loose branches, leaves, logs, and plants. (Do not put these in bags!).
Construction Debris: Damaged fencing, drywall, carpet, and roof shingles.
Bulk Items: Ruined furniture, mattresses, and appliances.
⚠️ The Mixed-Pile Rule: If you mix your household junk with your yard waste, our crews cannot collect it. Keep them separate so we can clear your street faster!
