Should you go to a hurricane shelter? What to know before you make your decision

Hurricane shelters should be used only if you're ordered to evacuate and have nowhere else to go.

If you need transportation or special help, make arrangements now. Here's how to plan ahead:

Go to floridadisaster.org/planprepare/shelters to find the nearest shelters in your county. Some will fill up quickly, and some won’t open at all. Not every shelter is opened for every storm.

Supply list for a hurricane shelter

Heading to a shelter? Take these supplies:

• Identification and insurance papers

• A gallon of water

• Medicines and Medic Alert tags

• Blankets and pillows or a sleeping bag

• Lounge chair

• Flashlights, radio and batteries

• Changes of clothing, soap and deodorant

• Small games, books, magazines and cards

• Baby needs: diapers, formula, etc.

• Snacks, non-perishable food

Note: Do not bring pets (except service animals), alcoholic beverages, smoking materials, heavy luggage or several pieces of luggage, valuables or weapons.

Reminder: Hurricane shelters should be a last resort

If you live in the hurricane evacuation zone or in a mobile home, you should evacuate when the evacuation order is issued. Your first choice should be to stay nearby with a friend or family member but not in a flood-vulnerable area.

Keep in mind: A shelter will not be a pleasant place. It might be crowded. You won’t be allowed to bring the comforts of home.

Here's what to do if you head to a hurricane shelter

• Look at the shelters map for your county for the shelter closest to you.

• Listen for updates. Storm direction, intensity and other factors will determine which shelters will open.

• Let a friend or relative know where you’re headed.

• If you’re disabled or have a serious medical condition, you should preregister with your county’s division of emergency management to get special help or transportation during a hurricane evacuation.

• Consider volunteering at a shelter. Call the Red Cross in your county to volunteer.

• Eat a good meal before you go.

How to prepare for a shelter if you or a loved one has a disability

If you or your loved ones have special needs or are otherwise disabled, make arrangements before the season begins or before a storm is approaching. Here's how to find a special-needs shelter in your county.

• Don’t stay alone. Try to stay with relatives or friends. If you choose to stay home and have an assistant, make sure that person will be with you during and after the storm.

• Stock up on medications. Pharmacies could run out before the storm and it can take time for new supplies to get into the area afterward. Store medications in waterproof bags.

• A generator is critical if you need electricity for breathing equipment or other needs or if drugs need refrigeration. Do not use a portable generator inside.

• If you’ll be going to the your county special-needs shelter, make those arrangements now. Space and assistance are limited and will be offered only to people who need electricity for medical devices;  to refrigerate insulin; diabetics who need supervisory medical care; and patients who are immobile and/or have chronic illness but cannot be accommodated in a regular shelter.

• Your doctor must complete the registration. Officials determine if you qualify. Arrange transportation in advance.

• Pets likely won't be allowed.

• You will not be released from the shelter until your neighborhood has been declared safe.

This article originally appeared on Treasure Coast Newspapers: Hurricane shelters: What to expect and what to take with you if you go