Special Needs Shelter (SpNS)

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.

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:

Special Needs Registry

Special needs shelters are for those with disabilities or who require medical care that exceeds basic first aid. Preregistration is important so emergency responders can ensure space is reserved for those with the greatest need. 

Register