ECUA Shares Utility-Related Hurricane Preparedness Tips
With Isaias becoming a tropical storm and forecast to strengthen to a hurricane, the
Emerald Coast Utilities Authority is encouraging customers to take steps now to prepare their homes
and families before the storm arrives.
Store Water Before the Storm
Customers should have an adequate supply of water in case water service is temporarily interrupted.
Escambia County Emergency Management recommends storing at least one gallon of water per person,
per day for at least seven days, with additional water for pets. Customers may also want to store extra
water for bathing, cleaning and flushing toilets.
Store drinking water in clean, food-grade containers and keep it in a cool, dark location away from
sunlight, heat and household chemicals. Customers can also consider filling sinks and bathtubs with
water before the storm for cleaning and toilet flushing, allowing stored drinking water to be reserved for
drinking and cooking.
Secure Trash and Recycling Cans
Before the storm arrives, customers should secure their trash and recycling cans in a garage, shed or
other protected location, if possible. Loose cans can become dangerous projectiles during high winds
and may damage property. If cans cannot be stored indoors, place them in the most sheltered location
available, away from streets and storm drains, and secure them using an ECUA-approved method, if
applicable.
Stay Informed
ECUA encourages customers to enroll in the ECUA Notification System to receive important service
updates, including significant water outages, precautionary boil water notices and other urgent service
notifications. Customers can register for the ECUA Notification System at ECUA.fl.gov.
Customers are also encouraged to follow trusted local media outlets and emergency management
resources for the latest updates regarding the storm, including Escambia County Emergency
Management and the National Weather Service office in Mobile.
Prepare for Possible Power Outages
Customers who rely on electrically powered equipment for their water or wastewater needs should
prepare for a potential loss of electricity and make sure backup power is available when necessary.
Generators should always be operated safely and according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
The Mission of the Emerald Coast Utilities Authority is to promote the quality of life of the Emerald Coast
by providing water, wastewater, and sanitation services in an effective and efficient manner.
After the Storm
Following the storm, ECUA asks customers to remain patient as crews assess conditions and respond to
any damage throughout the service area. Customers should report water or wastewater emergencies to
ECUA’s emergency after-hours line at (850) 476-5110.
ECUA, along with its local government and community partners, will continue to monitor the storm and
provide additional information as it becomes available.
For additional information and the latest service updates, visit ECUA.fl.gov and follow ECUA on social media