Prayers from me that everyone Stays safe.
Thanks! There’s at least 2 other members of Copperbadges Stream Team here in Florida and 2 more Tumblerites that I can think of right off the top of my head and we all need luck
LOL �� But seriously, I live in South Florida, so it’s scary no matter what. The whole entire state could be without power again in a couple of days, just like when Hurricane Irma hit two years ago. Everyone has to be ready, if you live in Florida. 🌀
Too true! Always take every storm seriously and keep an up to date hurricane stash. Have meds, cash, water, food you can make without water or electricity, lamps, lamp oil, etc, etc, etc. There are extensive lists available just Google.
I just remembered I need to pick up a new foil fryer pan for Miss Freddie’s port-a-potty because I didn’t replace it after the last time we got evacuated. We go to my cousin’s house which is concrete block on relatively high ground and I set her up in the laundry room.
One thing a lot of people dealing with their first storm often get caught out by is evacuating with pets. Most hurricane shelters WILL NOT TAKE PETS and a lot of hotels won’t take them. Find out ahead of time what your options are and plan around that.
They should take assistance dogs but I’m not sure about emotional support animals. Remember it’s not true that assistance dogs have to be certified and have proof of certification but it’s such a common misconception fostered by the scam companies offering such certification that you should probably be prepared with a copy of the relevant parts of the actual ADA and/or a doctor’s note just to be safe. I think you may need a note for an emotional support animal. @anauthorandherservicedog chime in here if you would please.
Most shelters won’t offer anything much beyond a place to put your sleeping bag or cot. They will not have bedding. They may have sandwiches at some point. I wouldn’t count on them feeding you though. If you have dietary restrictions you’ll definitely need to bring your own food.
They won’t be set up to deal with any serious medical needs either. There should be one or two designated special needs shelters in the area with volunteer nurses on site, some way to keep meds that have to be refrigerated cool, and a good backup power system but to use them you have to be signed up as eligible BEFORE the storm and they will not have the supplies you may need so again bring your own. Contact your local emergency preparedness office to find out what they require to get you signed up. The special needs shelters are limited to the person with the medical need and ONE other person. Other members of the family have to go to regular shelters.
