Once a hurricane warning is declared, most of your preparations should be directed towards the home.

Prepare your Home
Here's what to do:

• Secure your home, inside and out, including windows, doors, boats and patio areas.
• Charge all mobile phones and keep a corded phone handy.
• Withdraw cash from the bank.
• Get fuel for your car, generator and other gas-powered tools.
• Protect your electronics with surge protectors and waterproof coverings.
• If you own a boat, use double lines at a marina or consider dry-dock storage. 
• Do not begin any tree pruning or household cleanup activities.

Hurricane Watches and Warnings
A hurricane watch is declared when hurricane conditions are possible within the next 36 hours. A hurricane warning is declared when hurricane conditions are expected within the next 24 hours. Some services may be impacted depending on weather conditions.

Do's and Don'ts of Hurricane Watches and Warnings
Remember these important do’s and don’ts:

• Do not prune trees or dispose of any bulky waste on the right-of-way. If you must dispose of tree trimmings, take them to a Neighborhood Trash & Recycling Center instead.
• Do visit Miami-Dade County's website or call 3-1-1 for updates on County services. Depending on conditions, bus, rail, trash and recycling service, as well as airport and seaport operations, could be affected.
• Do secure your garbage and recycling carts inside a utility room or garage so that they do not become airborne. You’ll need your carts to ensure that you get service after the storm.