If an evacuation order has been issued, officials strongly encourage you to make every effort to leave the area. Evacuation options that may be better than going to a public shelter include: Staying at your house if you are not in an area under an evacuation order, or if you do not live in a mobile or manufactured home. Going to the home of a friend or family member who lives outside the evacuation zones. Checking into a hotel or motel that’s outside the evacuation zones. Traveling to a part of Florida not under an evacuation order. What You Need to Know About Shelters If you have no safe place to go, head for a shelter. Lists of local shelters are available on county websites, as well as in this guide. However, when planning where you’ll go, remember that some locations may not be open and operating if they are too close to the storm and its path. Follow WINK News, The Weather Authority, via website, television or radio for the latest information. If you must go to a shelter, here are some things for you to consider: There is a shortage of evacuation shelters. If you have a safe place to evacuate to, plan to use that alternate location rather than a public shelter. Shelters are not hotels. They do not provide any conveniences or luxuries. Bring your family’s disaster supply kit to ensure proper provisions. Food and water should be available, but there may be a slight delay in initial service. Cots are not provided in general-population shelters. Weapons, smoking or alcoholic beverages ARE NOT allowed in shelters. In fact, showing up with weapons or liquor under any circumstances could get you arrested. Service animals are allowed at all shelters, but family pets are not allowed in public shelters. Pets are permitted only in shelters designated as “pet-friendly.” All service animals must have vaccination records and be caged. You must also provide their food, water, leash and waste management. Items to bring to a shelter Drinking water Snacks or special foods, including foods for special dietary requirements Lawn chair Bed roll Pillows and blankets Books, magazines or electronics with headphones Medications Change of clothing Personal hygiene items (toothbrush, toothpaste, hand sanitizer, etc.) Important documents and ID (driver’s license or passport, proof of residence, etc.) If you are medically vulnerable, you should also remember to bring your own personal health equipment and hygiene products About Special Needs Shelters A special needs shelter is a temporary emergency facility capable of providing care to residents whose medical condition may require the use of electrical equipment, oxygen or dialysis, as well as to individuals with physical or cognitive conditions requiring assistance from medical professionals. Those eligible to go to a special needs shelter should pre-register with Emergency Management. Here’s what you should know about special needs shelters: You must register every year. Your application is good for one calendar year only. You must have a companion or caregiver accompany you during your time at the shelter. Typically, there are a limited number of staff on hand. You will receive a confirmation letter and instructions advising you that you’re on the registry for a special needs shelter, and what to expect if those shelters are opening. Although special needs shelters provide more care than a general shelter, they do not provide the level of care found in a medical facility. About Pet-Friendly Shelters Prepare a pet supply kit that includes: Non-perishable food Water Medications Sturdy cage or carrier Collar and leash Up-to-date vaccination records Also consider: Keeping several photos of your pet with you to help with identification if you’re separated. Placing identification on your pet’s collar. Using a microchip to identify your pet. Check with your county to see if your local animal services department offers a microchipping program.