During a storm or other emergency it may be preferable, or even necessary, for Tribal Members, their families, or employees to seek shelter in order to safely weather the emergency. Several sheltering options are available to the Tribe in the event of an emergency.

Sheltering Outside of the Impacted Area 

In the event of an upcoming storm or other emergency, the best available sheltering option often is to stay with family or friends outside of the immediate local area. If you must evacuate your home or feel unsafe in your home, staying with family and friends in a location outside of the affected area is the best option for being both safer and more comfortable.

Sheltering in Place 

If sheltering in place is called for by an emergency, immediately go indoors into a room with few or no windows, bringing all children and pets with you, and close and lock all windows and doors. Sheltering in place may be required during various types of emergencies, please pay careful attention to the instructions accompanying the announcement. Whereas a chemical emergency might require you to seal all windows and doors to prevent outside air from coming in and remove all clothing that may have been exposed, an active shooter or tornado emergency will require different actions to ensure your safety and that of your loved ones.

Emergency Sheltering

If sheltering in place or with family and friends outside of the impacted area is not an option or a safe alternative for you and your family, emergency sheltering may be the better option. Depending upon the community or communities that may be affected, Seminole Tribe emergency shelters may be opened and made available to Tribal Members and employees during an upcoming storm or other emergency event.

Special Medical Needs Sheltering

It is important that Tribal Members with Special Medical Needs are registered with the Tribal Health Department before a disaster so transportation and other arrangements can be made in advance. If you are a Tribal Member with Special Medical Needs, or are the care taker of a Tribal Member with Special Medical Needs, please register with the Tribal Health Department at (863) 983-5151.

What to Bring to a Shelter

Should you plan to use a shelter for emergency sheltering, you will need to bring the following items to ensure your maximum comfort:

• Medications
• Bed sheets or sleeping bags
• Pillows
• Towels
• Family, friend, or neighbor’s contact information
• Cellphone and Charger
• Change of clothing
• Toiletries
• Snacks, books, and games for children

*Unfortunately, we are unable to accommodate pets, nor do we have infant or children furniture
Be sure to bring enough supplies for 3-5 days! For more information, please call the Disaster Hotline: 1-800-617-7514.