Hurricane and Disaster Preparedness
This page contains some of our favorite hurricane and disaster planning websites and apps.
Click the titles below to find the resources you like best as you make preparations for your safety and the safety of your family.
If this is an emergency, call 911 if you can. Text if you can’t.
In Manatee and Sarasota counties, enter “911” in the “to” line and send a message (i.e. Help)
Provide the exact location of the emergency. Keep the text message brief
Preparations
Quick list of items to have on hand before and after the storm, plus what to take if you evacuate
Create a Family Emergency Plan following prompts. Downloadable
Invaluable form to fill out before an emergency with wallet cards
Easy-to-follow decision maker to see the steps you need to take when making this important decision
Securing windows and doors, preparing your home, inventorying belongings
Tips on evacuation, emergency supplies, how to protect your property
Post-hurricane clean up
Plan ahead for disasters with links to coronavirus, financial preparedness and Ready Kids
Resources for staying informed along with care plans for family members of all ages including those with special needs
Suggested records and documents to assemble and keep safe from a disaster
Learn to make your home more hurricane resistant
American Red Cross links for assistance and shelters. How to prepare before a hurricane prioritized by time. Links to free Emergency App
Local Resources - Manatee County
Current local weather conditions and detailed forecast, hazardous weather and radar maps
All encompassing official guide to Manatee County disaster planning
Lists open shelters and which are pet friendly; link to map of Manatee County emergency shelters
For Manatee County residents who need transportation or sheltering assistance during evacuation
Sign up to receive notifications from government and public safety officials
Plan your route before leaving your driveway; have a Plan B and a Plan C
Locate the storm evacuation level of your home or business with this interactive map
Current status of Manatee County Emergency Operations Center; storm prep info
Before the storm, enter your address here to find your evacuation level, flood zone and nearest emergency shelter
After a disaster, use this American Red Cross site to let family and friends know you are safe or search for others who have registered safe
Local Resources - Sarasota County
Current local weather conditions and detailed forecast, hazardous weather and radar maps
All encompassing official guide to Sarasota County disaster planning
Lists open shelters and which are pet friendly; link to map of Manatee County emergency shelters
For Sarasota County residents who need transportation or sheltering assistance during evacuation
Sign up to receive notifications from government and public safety officials
Plan your route before leaving your driveway; have a Plan B and a Plan C
Locate the storm evacuation level of your home or business with this interactive map
Sandbag operations, County Safety status conditions and helpful resources
Steps to take to protect your home plus a checklist for sheltering in place
After a disaster, use this American Red Cross site to let family and friends know you are safe or search for others who have registered safe
National Weather Service Resources
Current weather and active alerts, forecast maps, radar and news
NOAA Weather Radio frequencies by state
SW Florida Edition. Phone numbers at State, County and National level; radio station frequencies
Difference between watches and warnings, what to do before, during and after a hurricane
What to do before, during and after a thunderstorm. Explains severe thunderstorm risk
What to do before, during and after a tornado. Explains difference between Tornado Watch and Tornado Warning
Pet Disaster Preparedness
Prepare a disaster kit for your pets. Lists documents, food, water, medications to have ready
How to protect your pet in event of extreme weather or a disaster. Links to find pet-friendly hotels
What to do with your pet should you need to go to an evacuation center
FEMA brochure. Prepare a pet emergency supply kit
ASPCA email list sign up required to receive, includes pet rescue window decal