The aftermath of a tropical storm leaves residents with the considerable task of cleaning up and preparing for the rest of the hurricane season. Citizens should take specific actions to recover from storm damages and safeguard themselves against future weather events. Beginning with sandbag disposal, residents are advised to scatter the sand from used sandbags in their yards and dispose of the bags, particularly if they have contacted floodwaters, which could lead to contamination, as detailed by Hillsborough County's official website.

On the topic of road safety post-storm, the county suggests avoiding driving through standing water, as the depth is often deceptive and could harm both the vehicle and nearby pedestrians, Having warned about flooded streets, the depth of which can cause unsuspected damage, drivers are reminded to proceed with caution. Additionally, traffic signals may be out of order, and residents are to approach such intersections as four-way stops.

Residents should also take this opportunity to restock their hurricane kits, keeping an eye on expiry dates for consumables like bottled water and canned goods. Unopened bottled water, for instance, can be stored for up to two years if kept at room temperature or cooler. The county encourages people to save unused water for future storms and to preserve empty clean containers for filling up with tap water before a storm hits.

Yard cleanup is another critical area, with recommendations to delay the reactivation of irrigation systems to allow yards to drain properly. The county underscores the importance of mosquito control, advising residents to drain any containers that collect rainwater and could serve as breeding grounds for insects. By getting drained, these containers prevent mosquitoes from finding a place to lay eggs. For heavier storm debris, Hillsborough County provides scheduled pick-up services.

Property and business owners who have experienced losses or damage are instructed to report these through Hillsborough County's online platforms. The county reminds people of the possibility of fraud after natural disasters and suggests caution when hiring contractors for repairs. The county maintains its commitment to keep residents informed, urging them to sign up for HCFL Alert and to follow county social media channels for the latest updates on storm responses and safety information.