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, dial 911.
If you are unable to dial, using your wireless phone, text “911” in the “to” line and send a message (i.e. Help).
You will get an automatic reply of “Manatee County 9-1-1, what is the address of your emergency?”
You are now in contact with an emergency call taker.
Local Resources
All encompassing official guide to Manatee County disaster planning
Current local weather conditions and detailed forecast, hazardous weather and radar maps
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
SW Florida Edition. Phone numbers at State, County and National level; radio station frequencies
Current status of Manatee County Emergency Operations Center; storm prep info
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
Create a Family Emergency Plan following prompts. Download the plan to keep vital emergency info at your fingertips
Regional Emergency Management Plan, Disaster Planning Guide, Regional Evacuation Study and events calendar
National Weather Service Resources
Current weather and active alerts, forecast maps, radar and news
NOAA Weather Radio frequencies by state
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
General Preparedness
Sign up to receive notifications from government and public safety officials
Steps to prevent illness. Links to Eat Safe Food/Drink Safe Water fact sheets
Tips on setting up a temporary hand washing station and wound care, when to seek medical help
Tips on evacuation, emergency supplies, how to protect your property. Post-hurricane clean up
Securing windows and doors, taking inventory of belongs, preparing your home
Action to take, food safety, first aid for electrical shock and power line hazards
Suggested records and documents to assemble and keep safe from a disaster
List of refrigerated and freezer foods – which to keep and which to discard after power outage
Important documents and medical records, power sources, prescriptions and personal needs to have on hand
American Red Cross links for assistance and shelters. How to prepare before a hurricane prioritized by time. Links to free Emergency App