Florida Department of Health activates special needs shelter plan for Hurricane Helene response
Tallahassee, Florida – Florida state officials are intensifying preparation to protect citizens, especially those with special needs, as Tropical Storm Helene approaches the Florida coast. On Tuesday, the Florida Department of Health said it is getting ready to open special needs shelters in areas most likely to be impacted by the hurricane.
These shelters are meant for those who might not need hospitalization but yet need help because of particular medical illnesses or disability. Residents of these facilities must pre-register at the Florida Special Needs Shelter Registry website (snr.flhealthresponse.com). Local emergency management officials’ registration process lets them quickly deliver required information and support during crises.
Those qualified for these shelters should get ready with a list of prescriptions and dosages, a 30-day supply of drugs, any necessary crucial medical equipment, and backup energy sources for key devices, according to the Department of Health. Registrants should also carry proof for personal information including photo ID, insurance card, a list of emergency contacts, and contact details of their main care physician together with special dietary products.
Following registration, the local emergency management organization will offer more information on accessible evacuation and sheltering sites. Visiting FloridaDisaster.org allows residents to observe the situation of nearby shelters.
If you are a health care provider, email mailto:[email protected]to obtain a login for the special needs registry to ensure you are able to use all health care provider functions.
On Tuesday, Destin residents have been informed on the development of Tropical Storm Helene by the Okaloosa Public Safety and the National Weather Service. Originally recognized as PTC9, the storm has grown stronger and is now formally named Tropical Storm Helene. Helene, with 45 MPH maximum sustained winds, is traveling northwest and should strengthen into a Category 3 hurricane by Thursday night as reaching landfall in the Big Bend region.
