Special Needs Shelter



	Get Prepared. Be a Survivor! A disaster can strike at any time - sometimes without warning. It is important for every Floridian, especially citizens with disabilities and other special needs, to plan ahead for an emergency situation and know what to do in the event of an emergency. This Web site offers resources and information specifically tailored for people with disabilities/special needs and their families to help prepare for emergencies, protect themselves and be survivors. The links below provide additional information on preparedness planning, evacuation and shelters. Don't put off until tomorrow what you can plan for today! Be READY! The basic eligibility criteria you would need to meet to stay in a special needs shelter: 1) You are a person with special medical needs 2) Your care exceeds the basic first aid provided at general population shelters 3) Your impairments or disabilities are medically stable and do not exceed the capacity, staffing and equipment of the special needs shelter to minimize deterioration of your pre-event level of health. Remember — just because you have a disability does NOT mean you will require a Special Needs Shelter. Some people with disabilities can be safely accommodated in a general population shelter. And, the best place to shelter for every Floridian is: 1) with friends or family 2) in a safe structure 3) outside of the evacuation area. Tidbits to Remember! Special Needs Shelters are for clients and their designated care giver only. Efforts will be made for the rest of your household in the regular shelter. Application DOES NOT automatically guarantee assignment. Medical staff at the shelter will make the final decision based on current needs. Clients must provide their own medication, medical equipment and at least 24 hours of oxygen. Current medical information will be required. Pets are not allowed in a special needs shelter. If you are unable to make private arrangements for your pets, let us know. Transportation will be provided to take them to a pet shelter. You will need to have your animal's vaccination records available. Get a PLAN! Evacuation Checklist Create your own personalized Family Disaster Plan PREPARE! Osceola County Special Needs Shelter Application Packet Year 2013 - Please return your Special Needs Registration Form To: Osceola County Health Department Attention: Special Needs Registration 1875 Boggy Creek Road Kissimmee, FL 34744 If any questions, call us at: (407) 343-2133