Knowing Your Emergency Shelters in Sarasota County Florida

Located on the beautiful Gulf Coast of Florida, Sarasota County is revered for its beaches, sunshine, and paradise vibes, but what happens when a hurricane strikes? The area is no stranger to hurricanes, so a Sarasota hurricane evacuation map is available for every hurricane season. Sarasota County scores top marks in preparedness by offering various Sarasota County Emergency Shelters, providing accessible options for Florida residents. From general population shelters to pet-friendly and medical facilities, Sarasota prioritizes everyone’s safety. 

Did you know hurricane season in Florida begins on June 1 and ends on November 30? This blog explores the different emergency shelters, evacuation routes, and safety location options on the Sarasota hurricane evacuation map. We also provide tips on staying informed during a crisis (because being informed is the first step to staying protected), what to bring to a shelter, and overall preparedness for a hurricane. Hopefully, this guide will help you navigate available resources to keep you and your loved ones safe and secure. 

Table of Contents:

How Hurricane Shelters are Designated and Operated

There are three categories of shelters: general population, pet-friendly, and those for individuals with disabilities or functional needs. Some shelters may serve all. Others may only serve one.

Each type of shelter offers necessities, such as water, food, and medical care, until the hurricane passes. The designation and operation of Florida hurricane shelters involve coordination between non-profit and community organizations and local government agencies. The effort is collaborative, and shelters are typically staffed by trained volunteers from the American Red Cross and medical employees from the Florida Department of Health. Shelters for those with disabilities or functional needs may offer staff nursing assistants, and often have power banks for medical equipment.

Hurricane shelters in Sarasota County are strategically placed, ensuring optimal accessibility at common public destinations, like schools and community centers. Depending on the severity of the situation, shelters are opened as needed, and local officials will repeatedly announce the opening of emergency shelters through various communicative channels in the event of a hurricane.

The Sarasota Hurricane Evacuation Map

The Sarasota hurricane evacuation map is color-coded, with each color indicating different levels of storm threat and surges. Paths of possible destruction are mapped with color coding to indicate the level of storm surges likely to occur with five categories of an impending hurricane. There’s also local emergency shelter information with a map key containing the address, elevation (to protect against flood waters), and pet-friendliness status. 

Sarasota County Hurricane Evacuation Centers by City

You can find full details on the Sarasota County Emergency Evacuation Centers at the Sarasota County Emergency Management website. We have also listed them below for convenience. You can also view the County’s Evacuation Map (opens in new tab), which has Evacuation centers and rally points.

North Port Evacuation Centers

• Atwater Elementary School – 4701 Hunstville Ave, North Port, FL
• Heron Creek Middle School – 6501 W. Price Blvd, North Port, FL
• North Port High School – 6400 West Price Blvd, North Port, FL
• Woodland Middle School – 2700 Panacea Blvd, North Port, FL

Sarasota Evacuation Centers

• Booker High School – 3291 N. Orange Ave, Sarasota, FL
• Brookside Middle School – 3636 South Shade Ave., Sarasota, FL
• Fruitville Elementary School – 601 N. Honore Ave, Sarasota, FL
• Gulf Gate Elementary School – 6500 S. Lockwood Ridge Road, Sarasota, FL
• Phillippi Shores Elementary – 4747 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL
• Riverview High School – 1 Ram Way, Sarasota, FL
• Southside Elementary School – 1901 Webber Street, Sarasota, FL

Venice FL Evacuation Centers

• Taylor Ranch Elementary – 2500 Taylor Ranch Trail, Venice, FL

What to Know About Sarasota County Emergency Shelters

• Public Schools Can Be Used as Shelters. 

Sarasota County public schools are often designated emergency shelters because of their accessibility, central locations, and capacity. For instance, Venice High School and Tatum Ridge Elementary have been used several times, as they have spacious classrooms and activity areas to accommodate hundreds of people. 

• Community Centers and Other Facilities 

Harvest House and Jewish Family & Children’s Services are often designated emergency shelters, serving as safe spaces for people not near a public school. If a hurricane approaches, other community centers and government buildings will be announced via television, radio, and social media platforms.  

• Specialized Shelters for Disabled Persons and Those with Functional Needs 

Some shelters are equipped to accommodate individuals with medical or mental disabilities and those who need electrical power for medical equipment or medical care. The Florida Department of Health manages and staffs these shelters, providing medical care and support if a storm affects Sarasota County. If you or a loved one falls into this category, contact the Sarasota County Emergency Management office to register for a space in the shelter. 

• Rules and Requirements for Bringing Pets 

While pet-friendly shelters are available, there are specific rules and regulations. Pets must be kept leashed or in a crate or carrier, and owners are responsible for caring for their pets. Owner and pet cohabitation is strictly prohibited, and current vaccination records are required to stay at the shelter. Only domestic dogs and cats are allowed. Pets like fish, birds, and reptiles are not permitted. 

What to Bring to a Sarasota County Emergency Shelter

Below is a general list of items you should pack and bring with you:

• Personal ID, like a driver’s license or passport. 
• Necessary medications and medical supplies, at least two weeks’ worth. 
• Comfortable changes of clothing, especially for layering, since temperatures will vary. 
• Toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, soap, hand sanitizer, and other personal hygiene products. 
• Pillows, blankets, or sleeping bags. 
• Refillable water bottles. 
• Important documents, like medical insurance information, in a waterproof container. 
• Flashlight with extra batteries. 
• Books or board games to pass the time.
• Pet owners should bring a crate or carrier, a leash, food, water, and up-to-date vaccination records. 

Shelter Rules and Regulations for Emergencies in Sarasota County

The rules and regulations of most emergency shelters in Sarasota County include: 

1. All adults or older teenagers must have a valid ID upon arrival. 
2. Each person is allocated space for their bedding and supplies. Encroaching another person’s space is prohibited unless invited. 
3. Disruptive or aggressive behavior may result in legal repercussions. Respectful behavior is expected and appreciated at all times. 
4. No weapons, illegal drugs, or alcohol of any kind. 
5. Those seeking refuge are expected to maintain the cleanliness of their designated space, dispose of trash properly, and keep their belongings well-organized. 

Leaving the Shelter: Post-Storm Considerations

After a hurricane has passed, wait for official announcements from local government officials to ensure the area is safe. Assess conditions, like downed power lines or floods, and inspect your home for damage, like electrical problems, flooded rooms, or tree debris. Wear protective gear to do any clean-up, and help your neighbors, especially those who need extra help. You could also consider volunteering with local organizations to assist with clean-up and recovery. 

The Critical Role of Emergency Shelters and Evacuation Maps in Disaster Response

Emergency shelters and the Sarasota hurricane evacuation map are vital tools for disaster management. Both empower individuals to navigate their way to safety or seek temporary protection from the damage of an approaching hurricane. Together, they enhance urban resilience, minimize fatalities, and guarantee a more coordinated and efficient response to natural disasters in Sarasota County.