October 8, 2024 – As Floridians prepare for Hurricane Milton to make landfall, it is important for residents seeking shelter to keep in mind that there are distinctions between pre-storm evacuation centers/shelters and post-storm shelters.

Evacuation centers/shelters provide a safe place to stay for those who don’t feel safe, people who are displaced and those whose homes prior to a storm are in a mandatory evacuation zone. They typically are only meant to house people for 12-72 hours until the storm moves through. Because these centers/shelters must open quickly, it may not be possible to provide a cot and blanket for each person and it may not be practical to move in supplies for such a short-term.

Post-storm shelters are available for people who have been evacuated and are unable to reach their homes or whose homes are unlivable. Post-storm shelters typically open within 72 hours after landfall and provide sleeping support items such as cots, blankets and pillows, meals, shower facilities, medical services and other support services.

Working in partnership with County emergency management officials, the American Red Cross strives to transition evacuation centers/shelters into post-storm shelters as soon as possible after the storm has passed and needs for continued sheltering have been identified.

WHAT TO BRING:

• Water: one gallon per person, per day (3-day supply for evacuation)
• Food: non-perishable, 3-day supply for evacuation and other special food items
• Bedding/sleeping items
  
• Prescription and emergency medications for all family members
• Medical supplies (hearing aids with extra batteries, glasses, contact lenses, syringes, cane)
• Copies of personal documents (medication list and pertinent medical information, proof of address, deed/lease to home, passports, birth certificates, insurance policies)
• Sanitation and personal hygiene products
• Personal care and other comfort items
• Photo ID, cash
• Extra clothing
• Special items for infants, like diapers, baby food, medication
• Family pets: kennel, food and special medication*
• Power cords for portable electronics
   

Find shelters by downloading the free Red Cross Emergency app or visit redcross.org/shelter. For people unable to access the information they need, call 1-800-RED-CROSS but keep in mind longer wait times due to large call volume. You can also find shelters and community-based services by following your local emergency officials on social media or by monitoring local news.

About the American Red Cross:
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation's blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or cruzrojaamericana.org, or visit us on Twitter at @RedCross