Okaloosa County Special Needs Shelter 

When a major disaster threatens Okaloosa County and an evacuation order is issued, residents with medical, functional or special needs may need to seek shelter where   their electrical needs  can be met.. The Florida Department of Health in Okaloosa County and Okaloosa County Emergency Management coordinate to offer Special Needs Sheltering for these individuals. The special needs shelter will have medical staff on hand for basic medical assistance.

It is important to keep in mind that a special needs shelter is a shelter of last resort. Special Needs Shelters are designed to meet the needs of persons who require assistance that exceeds services provided at a general population shelter. It is  imperative that people with  medical, functional, or special needs, who need assistance with care have a disaster plan to address his/her needs. Special needs shelter should only be relied upon as a back up to an already well thought out plan.

If you or your family member has a medical, functional, or special needs and do not have an emergency plan, the Florida Department of Health in Okaloosa County has a FREE program available to assist you. The Lean on Me Program pairs residents with trained, credentialed, and background screened volunteers that are available to assist residents with creating a specialized emergency plan specific to your needs.

What does SpNS Offer? 

The Okaloosa County Special Needs Shelter will be staffed with nurses and other medical personnel to provide basic care for residents. The shelter will provide shelterees with:

• Three meals per day and water. If you are on a special diet, you will have to bring non-perishable food items with you.
• Basic medical assistance will be available from qualified health care professionals; however, complex medical equipment or care is not available.
• Back-up electricity for light and essential medical equipment will be made available.
• Space for yourself and your required caregiver. If you require a caregiver's assistance at home, it is strongly encouraged they accompany you to the shelter.
• Cots are available on a limited basis and not guaranteed. For your comfort, bring items such as bedding, pillows, and blankets.

Eligibility and Registration 

• People with special medical needs.
• People whose care exceeds the basic first aid provided at general population shelters.
• People with impairments or disabilities who are medically stable and do not require medical care.
• People with disabilities are not required to go to a special needs shelter.

 Most people with disabilities can be safely accommodated in a general population shelter.
Okaloosa County Special Needs Shelter has limited capacity and limited medical care available. In order to give the best care possible under the emergency circumstances, we encourage all residents to register for the program. Registration can be completed online. If you need any support registering, you can call us at 850-344-0570 or email PreparedOkaloosa@flhealth.gov

Once you've registered, a Registered Nurse will review your medical conditions and determine your eligibility for the Special Needs Shelter. You will receive a letter in the mail from the Florida Department of Health in Okaloosa County with your eligibility status. If you did not receive your letter or are unsure of your status, please contact us at 850-344-0570 or email PreparedOkaloosa@flhealth.gov.

FDEM l 2015 Statewide Special Needs Registry PSA

FDEM l 2015 Statewide Special Needs Registry PSA- Caregiver

Prior to Going to the Shelter 

Personal Contact and Medical Information List:
Compile a list of friends or family who can be contacted during an evacuation. Include the name and phone number of a primary medical provider as well as the names and doses of all medications. 

Make a Shelter Kit:
Assemble an emergency supply kit in a duffle bag or backpack and label it with the client’s name and phone number. Store the supply kit in a place that is dry and easily accessible. Include all medications and medical equipment including batteries and power cords. A more detailed checklist of suggested items to bring to a shelter can be found on this Shelter Items Checklist for Special Needs Client (PDF 191KB). 

Gather Important Documents:
Store an emergency contact list and documents in your emergency supply kit in case your home is damaged. Keep the information in a safe place and give copies to your personal support network and out of area contact.