Recover

Just because the skies are clear doesn’t mean it’s safe to return.

Before heading home:

• Verify your area is open for reentry.
• Monitor official emergency updates.
• Check road conditions.
• Confirm bridges and major highways are open.
• Expect delays and checkpoints.

Returning too early can put you—and emergency responders—at unnecessary risk.

The first day after a hurricane should focus on safety, not cleanup.

Your priorities should be:

1. Make sure everyone is safe.
2. Check for injuries.
3. Assess your surroundings.
4. Report emergencies.
5. Contact family members.
6. Document damage.
7. Avoid unnecessary risks.

Property can often be repaired.

Lives cannot.

The Recover section is designed to walk you through each stage of getting back on your feet.

Reentry Guidance

Learn when it’s safe to return, what to expect at checkpoints, and how to inspect your home before entering.

Protect yourself from hazards such as floodwater, mold, debris, unstable structures, chainsaw injuries, and carbon monoxide.

Document your losses, photograph damage, understand the claims process, and avoid common mistakes that can delay recovery.

Find assistance from local organizations, government agencies, volunteers, and neighbors as your community rebuilds.

Think of recovery as four phases:

Immediate

First 24 hours

Safety comes first.

First week

Secure your property.

Prevent additional damage.

Restore basic needs.

First month

Insurance claims.

Repairs.

Temporary housing.

Replacing damaged belongings.

Months later

Rebuilding.

Improving your home’s resilience.

Preparing for the next hurricane season.

Every recovery is different, and it’s okay if yours takes time.

Many injuries happen after the storm.

Be cautious around:

• Standing water
• Downed power lines
• Damaged trees
• Broken glass
• Nails and sharp debris
• Carbon monoxide
• Heat exhaustion
• Mold

Take breaks, stay hydrated, and wear appropriate protective equipment during cleanup.

Recovery often involves paperwork.

Maintain copies of:

• Insurance claims
• Receipts
• Repair estimates
• Contractor agreements
• Temporary housing expenses
• FEMA documentation
• Photos and videos of damage

Good documentation can make the recovery process smoother.

Recovery isn’t only physical.

It can also be emotionally exhausting.

Remember to:

• Get enough rest.
• Stay hydrated.
• Eat regular meals.
• Ask for help when needed.
• Stay connected with family and neighbors.
• Give yourself time to recover emotionally.

Strong communities recover together.

Before beginning cleanup:

✔ Everyone is safe

✔ Home inspected carefully

✔ Damage photographed

✔ Utilities checked

✔ Insurance notified

✔ Emergency repairs completed

✔ Protective equipment available

✔ Recovery assistance identified

Continue through the recovery process:

• Reentry Guidance – Returning home safely.
• Cleanup & Safety – Protect yourself during cleanup.
• Insurance & Damage Tips – Document and file claims.
• Community Support – Find local recovery resources.

A hurricane can change a neighborhood in a single day, but recovery is measured one decision at a time.

Stay patient. Stay safe. Ask for help when you need it. Focus first on protecting your family, then on rebuilding your home and community.

Preparation may have helped you weather the storm, but recovery is how you move forward.