October 10, 2024 3:02 PM

Hurricane Milton Update - 3 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 10

The City of Maitland began extensive efforts early Thursday morning to recover from Hurricane Milton.

The City of Maitland began extensive efforts early Thursday morning to recover from Hurricane Milton.

Police, firefighters and public works employees spread out across the city, using chainsaws and other tools to clear roadways that were blocked by trees and debris. By noon Thursday, seven teams began canvassing parts of the city to assess properties damaged by the storm.

Homeowners who wish to report hurricane damage to their homes and property may contact the city’s emergency operations center at (407) 457-5211. For emergencies, call 9-1-1.

Maitland Community Park remained closed Thursday due to extensive tree damage. Parts of Lake Lily Park are cordoned off because of high water levels. Fort Maitland Park also is closed.

Maitland City Hall and administrative offices are closed until 7 a.m. Monday, Oct. 14. For storm assistance and questions, call the emergency operations center at (407) 457-5211.

Thursday and Friday residential garbage and recycling collections are canceled due to closure of the Seminole County landfill. Yard waste and debris collections will be determined following city damage assessments and future landfill availability.

Residents are strongly advised to stay away from downed or low-hanging power lines. Avoid touching the downed line with your hand or an object, such as a stick, broom or pole. Do not touch anything such as a car, object or equipment, or anyone who is in contact with a fallen power line. Keep children and pets away from fallen electric lines.

Call 9-1-1 immediately to report a fallen power line. Report power outages to Duke Energy at (800) 228-8485.

Always use extra caution when using an emergency generator.

The primary hazards to avoid when using a generator are carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning from the toxic engine exhaust, electric shock or electrocution, and fire. Follow the directions supplied with the generator. (Learn more about carbon monoxide poisoning.)

Never use a generator, grill, camp stove or other gasoline, propane, natural gas or charcoal-burning devices inside a home, garage, basement, crawlspace or any partially enclosed area.

Keep these devices outdoors, away from doors, windows and vents that could allow carbon monoxide to come indoors.

If you start to feel sick, dizzy, or weak while using a generator, get to fresh air RIGHT AWAY - DO NOT DELAY.

More hurricane safety information is available on the city website at www.itsmymaitland.com.