Hurricane Milton: Special Needs Shelters

Contact: 
Communications Office
NewsMedia@flhealth.gov
850-245-4111

Tallahassee, Fla. — In response to Hurricane Milton, the Florida Department of Health has prepared for special needs shelter operations to begin in areas of anticipated landfall.

In an emergency, such as an evacuation for a hurricane, you may need to go to a special needs shelter. If you know or care for an individual with a disability or a special need, such as a medical condition that requires assistance but not hospitalization, it is important that you pre-register with the Florida Special Needs Shelter Registry. You will need to log in with an existing account or create a new account.

Registering through the Florida SpecialNeeds Registry allows local emergency management officials to provide important information and quickly assist you during an emergency. For more information, contact your county’s emergency management office or visit the Florida Special Needs Registry.

If you are eligiblefor a special needs shelter,your kit should include:

• List of medications and dosage
• A 30-daysupply of medications
• Vital medical equipment for those who may be electrically or oxygen dependent,
• Backup energy sources for essential medical equipment
• Any special dietary needs or food
• Personal information including:
  • Photo ID
  • Insurance card
  • List of emergency contacts
  • Your primary care provider’s contact information

After completing the Florida Special Needs Registry, additional information will be provided to you by your local emergency management agency regarding evacuation and sheltering options available.

For more information on your local shelter status,please visit FloridaDisaster.org.