The Florida Department of Health has announced preparations for special needs shelter operations in anticipation of Potential Tropical Cyclone Nine. These measures are being taken in areas expected to be affected by the storm.
Officials encourage residents with special needs to register through the Florida Special Needs Registry. According to the department, “Registering through the Florida Special Needs 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.”
People who qualify for a special needs shelter are advised to prepare a kit that includes a list of medications and dosages, a 30-day supply of medications, vital medical equipment (especially for those dependent on electricity or oxygen), backup energy sources for essential medical equipment, any required special dietary foods, and personal information such as photo identification, insurance card, emergency contacts, and primary care provider contact details.
Once registration is complete in the Florida Special Needs Registry, local emergency management agencies will provide additional details about evacuation procedures and available shelter options.
For updates on shelter status throughout the state, residents can check www.FloridaDisaster.org.
Health care providers seeking access to functions within the registry should contact SNR@flhealth.gov for login credentials.
