Shelter Preparedness During a Hurricane

Hurricanes are powerful storms that can pack strong winds, torrential rain, and storm surge that can leave you without power, flood your home, or even tear off your roof.

Do you live in a mobile home or in a mandatory evacuation zone?  Or are you in a vulnerable area?  

If local authorities have issued an evacuation order, or if local television and radio stations are advising you leave the area, your local shelter may be your best choice.  

But unlike a cozy hotel, shelters prioritize safety over comfort.  They can get crowded and are noisy.  

 If you evacuate, going to a shelter should be your plan of last resort.  

Here's what to expect and what to pack to make your stay at a shelter as smooth as possible.

What to Expect at a Shelter During a Hurricane

Large Crowds

Shelters can get crowded quickly, especially during major storms. Be prepared for limited space and a lot of noise. You might have to share a room with many other people, and there may not be much privacy.

It's important to be patient and understanding, as everyone is in the same situation and trying to stay safe.

Basic Needs Met

Shelters typically provide food and water, but it might be rationed due to the number of people. You won’t go hungry, but don’t expect large meals.

Bring some snacks and bottled water if you can, just in case.

Shelters also provide basic medical assistance, but it’s a good idea to bring any medications or special dietary items you need.

Limited Amenities

Don't expect hotel-like comfort. There might not be cots, blankets, or pillows available, so bring your own if possible. You might have to sleep on the floor, and bathrooms might be crowded.

Bring personal hygiene items like soap, toothpaste, and toilet paper, as these might run out quickly.

Pet Policies

Check if the shelter accepts pets and what their specific requirements are.  Many shelters will require a copy of your pet's immunization records.  

Some shelters have designated areas for pets, but space can be limited. Make sure to bring your pet’s food, water, carrier, and any medications they need.

Also, bring items to clean up after your pet to help keep the shelter clean and comfortable for everyone.

Safety Focus

Shelter staff prioritize keeping everyone safe. This means following their rules and instructions at all times.

There might be curfews and restrictions on movement within the shelter. Listen to announcements and cooperate with the staff, as they are there to help you.

Shelter Types

General Population Shelters

These shelters are open to everyone and are designed to accommodate the general public during emergencies. They typically provide basic necessities such as food, water, and a place to sleep.

However, due to the large number of people, space can be limited, and amenities are often minimal. You might find yourself sleeping on a hard floor with little privacy. It's a good idea to bring your own bedding, such as blankets and pillows, as well as personal hygiene items.

These shelters are staffed by volunteers and emergency personnel who ensure everyone's safety and coordinate the distribution of supplies. Expect to follow rules and guidelines to maintain order and safety.  For example, alcoholic beverages will not be permitted.  

Special Needs Shelters

These shelters cater specifically to people with disabilities, medical conditions, or other special needs. They are equipped with additional resources to accommodate those who require extra care.

In the case of power outages, this might include access to electricity for medical devices, and refrigeration for medications.  

These shelters often have nurses and other healthcare professionals on hand to provide assistance.

If you or a family member have special needs, it's important to register with your local emergency management agency ahead of time, so they are aware of your requirements.

These shelters strive to create a comfortable and supportive environment for those who might not be adequately served by general population shelters.

Pet-Friendly Shelters

Some shelters are designated as pet-friendly and allow you to bring your pets with you. These shelters have specific areas for pets and may provide basic necessities like food and water for them.

However, you should still bring your own pet supplies, such as food, a carrier, a leash, and any medications your pet might need.

Pet-friendly shelters aim to keep pets and their owners together, reducing stress for both.

Family Shelters

These shelters are designed to accommodate families with children.

They often provide more space and resources tailored to the needs of families, such as baby supplies, toys, and activities to keep children occupied.

Family shelters aim to create a safe and comfortable environment for families during emergencies.

Emergency Overflow Shelters

In situations where the primary shelters reach capacity, emergency overflow shelters are set up to accommodate the additional evacuees.

These may not have as many amenities as the primary shelters but are crucial for ensuring everyone has a safe place to stay. It's important to listen to local authorities for information on where these shelters are located and how to access them.

By understanding the different types of shelters available, you can better prepare and choose the one that best meets your needs during an emergency.

My Experience at a Shelter During a Hurricane

Many years ago, my husband woke me up in the middle of the night and said we needed to evacuate immediately. A hurricane that was projected to come our way had rapidly intensified and a strong Category 5 storm was headed our way.  

Local news channels were urging people to get out. Although we didn't live in an official evacuation zone, we live in a vulnerable area as we are only half a mile from the Gulf of Mexico. So, we packed up our cat and headed to a pet-friendly shelter.

Pet-Friendly Shelter

We ended up at a pet-friendly shelter, which quickly became crowded. The space was limited, and the noise level was high, with people everywhere trying to find a spot to settle down.

Despite the lack of privacy and comfort, I was grateful for the shelter. We hadn't brought anything with us—no pillows, no blankets, nothing—so we had to make do with sleeping on the hard floor.

Basic Needs Met

The shelter provided food and water, but it was rationed due to the large number of people. While the portions were small, it was enough to keep us from being hungry. Basic medical assistance was available.  

Limited Amenities

The shelter did not have cots, blankets, or pillows, which made sleeping uncomfortable. Bathrooms were crowded, and personal hygiene items like soap and toilet paper ran out quickly. 

Pet Policies

Since our shelter was pet-friendly, so we could bring our cat, Lizzy, with us. There was a designated area for cats, a science room with vinyl flooring.

After getting a collar for Lizzy and a matching wristband for myself, we left her in the room where they found a spot for her carrier under a table.

However, the pet area quickly filled up, and the smell became unbearable as cats urinated in their carriers.

Despite the chaos, I was relieved that Lizzy was safe with us and I was thankful the shelter staff allowed us to visit her during designated times.

Safety Focus

The shelter staff prioritized keeping everyone safe. They made announcements and set rules that everyone had to follow.

For example, at 6 p.m., they announced that the building would be closed, meaning if you were outside, you wouldn't be allowed back in, and if you were inside, you couldn't leave. Following these rules was crucial for our safety.

Reflections and Tips

My experience at the shelter mirrored what you might expect based on the information above.

Given the same scenario, I would plan to stay at home but make arrangements to stay at a friend’s house or book a hotel room just in case.

If you have to go to a shelter, it should be your last resort. Shelters are not like staying at a friend’s house or a hotel. You will be with many other people you don’t know, and the county’s main effort is to keep you alive and safe.

This experience reinforced that hurricanes can intensify quickly. The forecast path of the storm can change, so don’t rely too much on it.

Hurricanes are unpredictable, and you need to keep that in mind when making your plan. 

Packing for the Shelter

When heading to a shelter during an emergency, it's crucial to pack the right items to ensure your comfort and safety. While shelters provide basic necessities, they may not have everything you need.

Being prepared with these items can make your stay at the shelter more comfortable and less stressful.

​Emergency Kit

Pack a well-stocked emergency kit with essential items. Include non-perishable food, bottled water, a first-aid kit, medications, a flashlight, extra batteries, a multi-tool, and a portable phone charger.

It’s important to be prepared for a stay of at least 72 hours. 

Comfort Items

To make your stay more comfortable, bring items such as blankets, pillows, and sleeping bags.

Earplugs can help block out noise, making it easier to rest in a crowded and noisy environment.

Entertainment

Shelters can be boring, especially during long stays. Pack books, card games, puzzles, or other small games to help pass the time.

Consider downloading movies or shows on your devices before you leave, and don’t forget your chargers.

Personal Hygiene Items

Bring toiletries, including soap, toothpaste, a toothbrush, deodorant, and toilet paper. Wet wipes and hand sanitizer can be very useful when access to water is limited.

Also, consider bringing a small towel and any other personal care items you might need.

Important Documents

Pack copies of important documents, such as identification, insurance papers, and a list of medications.

Keep these documents in a waterproof container to protect them from moisture and potential damage.

It’s also a good idea to have a list of emergency contacts.

Entertainment for Kids

If you have children, pack items to keep them entertained. Coloring books, crayons, small stuffed animals, and quiet games can help occupy their time.

Consider bringing tablets with pre-downloaded educational apps or videos, along with headphones to keep the noise level down.

Pet Supplies

If your pet is coming with you, ensure you have all the necessary supplies.

Pack food, water bowls, a leash, waste bags, bedding, and any medications your pet needs.

Bring your pet’s vet records, including vaccination certificates, and a recent photo of your pet in case you get separated.

A familiar toy or blanket can help reduce your pet’s stress.

Please remember:  If it is not safe for you, it is not safe for your pets!

 Additional Tips

• Clothing: Pack a change of clothes and sturdy shoes. Consider the weather and pack accordingly.

• Money: Bring some cash and credit cards. ATMs may not be accessible during emergencies.

• Personal Safety Items: Consider bringing a whistle, pepper spray, or other personal safety items.

• Special Needs: If anyone in your family has special needs, pack any additional items they might require, such as medical equipment, special foods, or assistive devices.

Being ready for an emergency is very important to keep you safe and comfortable in a shelter.

By packing essential items like an emergency kit, personal hygiene products, important documents, and supplies for your pets and children, you can make your stay much easier.

Shelters provide basic needs and safety, but having your own supplies can make a big difference.

Plan ahead, stay informed, and be ready to adapt to any situation. 

 Please check out these other articles I've written for additional information:

For a comprehensive guide to hurricane preparedness:  Hurricane Havoc:  Must-Know Tips to Weather the Storm Safely!

For information about stockpiling foods that don't require heating and a detailed list of first aid supplies:  Building a 72-Hour Home Kit - Part 1

For information about flashlights, radios,  and infant needs:  Building a 72-Hour Home Kit - Part 2.

For a list of the top items overlooked for a hurricane kit:  The Top 15 Overlooked Items for Your Hurricane Kit.

For a list of important documents and how to safeguard them:  Safeguarding Your Important Documents.   

Finally, for information about building a food stockpile:  Building a Food Supply.

And, don't forget you can also find me on Facebook and Instagram!

Additional Resources:

• FloridaDisaster.org:  What to Expect in a Shelter
• Monroe County Emergency Management:  What to Bring to a Hurricane Shelter
• TCM Palm:  Should You Go to a Hurricane Shelter?  What You Should Know Before You Make Your Decision