As Hurricane Milton approaches, Collier County officials are urging residents to prepare and take advantage of resources available to protect their homes, businesses, and families. Below is a list of vital services and information to help residents get ready for the storm.
All beach ends, the Naples Pier, the Pier parking lot, and City parks are CLOSED.
City offices and facilities will be closed from Tuesday, October 8th through Thursday, October 10th.
Emergency Alerts
CodeRed Alerts – sign up here
Flood Safety Tips
Hygiene & Safety During a Boil Water Notice:
Use bottled water for baby formula and boil water for handwashing, especially before eating, after toilet use, handling diapers, flood cleanup, or touching contaminated items.
Avoid eating/drinking anything exposed to flood waters.
Keep away from flood waters, particularly if you have cuts or sores. Wash any open wounds with soap immediately; seek medical attention if redness, swelling, or drainage occurs.
For cuts or puncture wounds, check with your doctor about tetanus shots.
Solid Waste
Do not leave loose horticulture debris in your yard or place it in the City’s right-of-way; secure it until after the storm.
Regular solid waste, recycling, and horticultural collection will occur on Tuesday, October 8, 2024.
All collection services will be suspended starting Wednesday, October 9, 2024, until further notice.
Secure recycling and trash carts before the storm.
Commercial and multi-residential complexes must close and secure dumpster gates.
The City will announce when collections will resume.
After the storm, do not place storm debris in the right-of-way until the City completes its damage assessment and provides instructions.
Septic System Issues:
Conserve water to reduce septic tank strain. Avoid using your washing machine.
Do not pump the septic tank, as high water tables could damage it.
Well Water Safety:
If your well floods, assume the water is unsafe. Use bottled or boiled water for drinking, cooking, and cleaning cuts.
For well water testing, call DOH-Collier at (239) 252-8200.
Hurricane and Disaster Debris Management
Before the storm:
Don’t open cleanouts or manhole covers to divert stormwater—it’s illegal and may cause backups into homes.
Do not place Hurricane Helene debris or bulk items out for collection. Call (239) 252-2380 for curbside debris removal if needed.
Use Collier County’s twice-weekly garbage and recycling services. Wait for your scheduled collection day to prevent wind-blown debris.
During/After the storm:
Avoid removing cleanout caps or manhole covers to keep stormwater out of the sewer system and prevent backups.
If your area floods with storm surge, report it to 311 and avoid using appliances to help speed recovery.
For questions, call the Collier Info Hotline at 311 or (239) 252-8444. Visit www.colliercountyfl.gov or follow www.facebook.com/CollierGov and www.twitter.com/CollierGov for updates.
Power Outages
Stay informed with these trackers providing real-time updates on power outages in your area, helping you stay connected and plan ahead. Keep your family safe and prepared—know when and where outages are happening.
Power Outage Tips
Keep freezers and refrigerators closed.
Use a generator, but ONLY outdoors and away from windows.
Do not use a gas stove or oven to heat your home.
Disconnect appliances and electronics to avoid damage from electrical surges.
Have alternate plans for refrigerating medicines or using power-dependent medical devices.
Generator Safety Tips
Always use generators outdoors, at least 20 feet from windows, doors, and attached garages.
Install carbon monoxide detectors on every level of your home, as this colorless, odorless gas can be deadly to people and pets.
Keep the generator dry and sheltered from rain or flooding to avoid electrical shock.
Use heavy-duty extension cords to connect the generator to appliances.
Allow the generator to cool before refueling to prevent fuel ignition from hot engine parts.
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully for safe operation.
Food Resources
Most Publix’s in Collier county will close by 3 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 8.
Check to see which stores are still open by you.
Walmart
Walmart has an online tracker to show which stores are open.
Collier Area Transit
Starting Tuesday, October 8, 2024, all Collier Area Transit (CAT) rides will be free until further notice.
Collier County Schools
Due to Hurricane Milton’s uncertainty, Collier County Public Schools will be CLOSED Monday, October 7 through Thursday, October 10, to allow families time to prepare and assess storm impacts. Full updates: www.collierschools.com/weather.
Electric Vehicles & Golf Carts
Avoid parking electric vehicles (EVs), including golf carts, in low-lying areas or parking garages.
EVs should not be stored in places where they may be exposed to floodwaters.
If high ground isn’t available, park at least 50 feet away from any structures.
According to Florida DEP, not all EV batteries will be damaged by flooding, but saltwater can increase the risk.
Signs of battery damage include smoke or strange noises, though damage might not always show immediately.
Never attempt to charge or drive an EV if its battery is suspected of flood damage.
Keep at least 50 feet away from damaged EVs and avoid storing them near buildings.
Contact a certified mechanic or the dealer to inspect the vehicle before use.
If a damaged EV cannot be towed, call emergency services to safely disconnect the battery.
Price Gouging Hotline
If you suspect price gouging during storm preparation, report it to the Florida Attorney General’s Office at 1-866-966-7226 or visit MyFloridaLegal.com.
Insurance and Consumer Protection
The Florida Division of Consumer Services assists residents with insurance claims before and after a disaster. For guidance on filing claims, call 1-877-693-5236 or visit myfloridacfo.com.
Small Business Bridge Loans
Businesses can apply for Florida Small Business Emergency Bridge Loans through the FloridaCommerce program. The loans are available to businesses affected by Hurricane Milton until November 24, 2024, or until funds are exhausted. Apply online at FloridaJobs.org/EBL.
Prepare Now, Stay Informed
Stay tuned to local advisories, prepare for the storm, and use the available resources to ensure your family’s safety. Be sure to sign up for alerts and prepare an emergency plan to weather Hurricane Milton.
