Sarasota County is now under a hurricane warning. #Shelters are open if you need to evacuate:

Open Shelters in Sarasota County

What to Bring

Being prepared and taking some personal items with you makes the stay a little more comfortable. If you have a to-go-bag already organized bring it. If not, here are some ideas of what you could bring with you.

Shelter Checklist (downloadable)

Clothing and Bedding:

• You should have three changes of clothing.
• Have an additional pair of sturdy shoes and foul weather gear.
• A sleeping bag, blanket and pillow would make it more comfortable to sleep.

Personal Items:

• Bring toiletries that you need for bathing and freshening up.
• A washcloth and towel would be handy.
• Many shelters have first aid kits, but you can bring your own too.
• Don’t forget your prescription medicines.

Important Documents and Information:

• Contact information for your relatives, in particular a relative outside the incident area.
• Contact information of your doctors and list of medicines that you take and what they are for.
• Photograph of family, in case someone(s) is missing.
• Papers that show proof of: insurance, ownership, kinship etc.

Food:

• If you want comfort food or you are on a special diet, you should bring your own food.

Miscellaneous:

• Cell phone and charger, radio, and flashlight are all important to have.
• Don’t forget the items to occupy your mind like, games, cards, toys and books.
• Bring ear plugs to help you sleep.