Prepare Before the Storm: Hillsborough County Encourages Special Needs Shelter Sign-Ups

As hurricane season approaches, Hillsborough County is encouraging residents with medical or functional needs to prepare early by registering for the County's Special Needs Shelter Program. The program, in partnership with the Florida Department of Health, helps to ensure vulnerable residents are supported during emergencies.

"These individuals are some of the most vulnerable people during a hurricane," said Ryan Pedigo, Division Director of Public Health Preparedness for the Florida Department of Health. "Our job is to make sure people have a safe place to go to that can meet their needs."

Through the partnership, Hillsborough County coordinates shelter operations to provide accommodation for eligible residents, helping ensure access to electricity-dependent medical equipment, medical monitoring, and support services in a safe environment. Officials say the program can save lives.

"Every year, we tragically lose people who are electric dependent but choose not to evacuate," said Pedigo. "Hurricanes are inevitable here in Florida. Preparing can help reduce your stress."

County officials are urging residents to register in advance. Doing so allows emergency teams to better understand the needs of qualifying residents, coordinate staffing, and prepare shelter spaces to accommodate medical and accessibility requirements before an evacuation order is issued.

"Having this information and knowing who is registered allows us to make a plan to ensure there are enough supplies and basic equipment at the shelter to meet their needs," said Pedigo.

Special needs shelters are intended for residents whose medical or functional needs cannot be met in a general population shelter but do not require hospitalization. Hillsborough County officials also stress residents should only use shelters if there is no other place to evacuate to.

Residents with special needs are encouraged to create a hurricane preparedness plan that includes medications, medical supplies, emergency contacts, transportation arrangements, and any caregiver support they may need during an evacuation.

Hillsborough County residents with special needs should complete the special needs shelter and transportation pre-registration now, before the height of hurricane season. Providing as much information as possible will allow emergency management officials to plan for future disasters. Stay ready this hurricane season and learn more by visiting HCFL.gov.