Disaster - Santa Rosa County

Sheltering from the Storm
Emergency Management, in conjunction with
the Santa Rosa County School District and
the American Red Cross, oversees emergency
sheltering for impacted and displaced residents
during times of emergency. Hurricane shelters
will be opened as needed when evacuation orders
are issued. Shelter openings will be announced
through all means possible including local media
outlets, press conferences and public meetings.
All shelters may not be opened at the same time,
therefore attention must be given to the current
shelter status in Santa Rosa County.
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Shelters
Special Needs
Shelter
When Your Home is Not Safe
Shelters are a Last Resort
Buildings used for evacuation shelters are normally public schools
that are staffed by specially trained American Red Cross volunteers
and staff. Shelters are generally crowded, usually uncomfortable
(especially when the power goes off because there is no ventilation),
have long lines to use restrooms and get food, and are very noisy,
making it difficult to rest or sleep. Keep in mind you may have to stay
in the shelter for several days.
Special Needs Shelter
The department of health operates the special needs shelter in Santa
Rosa County. This shelter is for those individuals who are selfmaintained
in the home setting, but may need additional support or
power during a disaster. These shelters are not equipped with advanced
medical equipment nor are they staffed to provide advanced medical
care.
You should pre-register and bring your caregiver. If you are
oxygen dependant, bring an extra tank, concentrators, nebulizers
and any other necessary equipment. Dialysis clients should dialyze
immediately prior to departing for the shelter. Residents can preregister
online for the special needs shelter at www.santarosa.
fl.gov/emergency/specialneeds.html or by calling (850) 983-5360.
Don’t Wait!
Downed power lines, trees and flooding may make it difficult, if not
impossible, to reach shelters during a hurricane. Allow for adequate
time to reach a shelter before winds and rain become severe.
If you need transportation to a shelter, call
(850) 983-INFO. Transportation will not be available after
the arrival of tropical storm force winds.
Shelter openings may vary with each emergency. If
you are unable to receive media information during an
event contact the Citizen Information Center at (850)
983-INFO (4636) for a listing of which shelters will
be opened. Shelter openings will differ by size and
intensity of a disaster. Do not go to the shelter until you
have verified that it is open.
Here are some things you should know about going to
an evacuation shelter:
• Evacuation shelters are provided for public use in
the event an evacuation becomes necessary and if
you have no other place to go.
• It is recommended that other arrangements be made
with a friend or relative that lives in a wellconstructed
home, out of the evacuation area, and
properly protected to withstand hurricane force
winds. You will be more comfortable in a less
crowded environment and among friends.
• Remember, no alcohol or weapons are allowed.
• Only cats and dogs are permitted in the pet friendly
shelter (see page 11).
What to take to a shelter
If you go to a public evacuation shelter,
you will need to take:
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A change of clothing, rain gear and sturdy shoes.
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Toiletries and personal items.
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Blankets or sleeping bags.
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Identification and any important papers.
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Games or toys for children; books for adults.
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Special items for infants or elderly family
members.
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Any special dietary needs and nonperishable foods
for snacks.
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Battery operated radio, flashlights and plenty of
spare batteries.
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Prescription medications or any over-the-counter
medications you normally take.
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Health insurance and pharmacy cards.