As Hurricane Milton approaches Tampa and surrounding areas, it’s important residents with special needs, including some of our patients receiving speech therapy, to be prepared. The Florida Department of Health has initiated special needs shelter operations in anticipation of the hurricane’s landfall. This blog post aims to provide essential information for those who may require special assistance during this emergency.
What is a Special Needs Shelter?
Special needs shelters are designed for individuals with disabilities and/or medical conditions that require assistance but not hospitalization. These shelters offer a higher level of care than general population shelters, Many of our occupational and speech therapy patients may need this care.
Pre-Registration is Key
If you or someone you care for might need a special needs shelter in Tampa, pre-registration is essential. Here’s what you need to know:
- Register with the Florida Special Needs Shelter Registry.
- You’ll need to create an account or log in to an existing one.
- This registry allows local emergency management to quickly assist you during the emergency.
For more information or assistance with registration, contact your county’s emergency management office or visit the Florida Special Needs Registry website.
What to Pack for a Special Needs Shelter
If you’re eligible for a special needs shelter, your emergency kit should include:
- A list of medications and dosages
- A 30-day supply of medications
- Vital medical equipment (for those dependent on electrical devices or oxygen)
- Backup energy sources for essential medical equipment
- Special dietary needs or food
- Personal information:
- Photo ID
- Insurance card
- List of emergency contacts
- Primary care provider’s contact information
- Any speech therapy tools or devices you regularly use
After Registration
Once you’ve completed the Florida Special Needs Registry, your local emergency management agency will provide additional information about evacuation and sheltering options available to you in the Tampa area.
Stay Informed
For the most up-to-date information on local shelter status in Tampa, visit FloridaDisaster.org.
For Health Care Providers
If you’re a health care provider in Tampa, you can obtain login credentials for the special needs registry by contacting [email protected]. This will ensure you have access to all health care provider functions within the system.
Conclusion
As Hurricane Milton approaches Tampa, it’s crucial to stay prepared and informed. If you or a loved one might need special assistance during this emergency, don’t wait – register with the Florida Special Needs Shelter Registry today. Remember, your safety and well-being are paramount during this challenging time. We are not sure if it is too late for Hurricane Milton but now you know for future storms and should pre register now.
Stay safe, Tampa!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q4: Are there any special considerations for children receiving speech therapy in Tampa special needs shelters? A: Yes, inform shelter staff about your child’s specific needs. Bring familiar therapy tools and comfort items to help maintain routines.
Q5: How long can I stay at a special needs shelter in Tampa? A: The duration of your stay depends on the hurricane’s impact and your individual needs. Shelter staff will provide updates and assist with post-storm arrangements.