- Get to Know FRLS
- Get Updated
- …
- Get to Know FRLS
- Get Updated
- Get to Know FRLS
- Get Updated
- …
- Get to Know FRLS
- Get Updated
Preparing for Disasters
The most important part of disaster relief is disaster preparedness. Fortunately, there are a handful of resources available to help you and your family weather the storm. Click on the links below and explore the steps every Floridian should take when expecting a disaster.
Know Your Evacuation Zone
Stay prepared ahead of a disaster by knowing if your home is in an evacuation zone, what your evacuation routes are, and your plan for where to go after you evacuate.
Resources
Last updated June 25, 2025
Find Shelters
To find an open shelter, you can:
- Visit the American Red Cross site or call 1-800-733-2767
- Call 211
- Visit https://www.floridadisaster.org/planprepare/shelters/
- Check your local news
View Road Conditions
Stay Informed
Connect with your local 211 organization to receive the latest information: https://fl211.org/disaster/
Power Outage Tracker
Flood Risk
Be prepared before a disaster by assessing your property's flood risk and purchasing flood insurance if necessary.
Review FEMA flood maps here: https://www.fema.gov/flood-maps
Talk to neighbors: Does the street flood? Does this house flood?
Ask the landlord/owner about flooding history. Get the answer in writing before you lease or buy.
Flood Preparation
Take proactive measures to protect your property by:
- Elevating and securing valuables: Store important documents in a waterproof container or a safe deposit box. Elevate electrical appliances and utilities to minimize damage.
- Flood-proof your home: Use sandbags and flood barriers to redirect water away from your home's entry points. Apply waterproof sealants and chaulking around doors, windows, and other openings to prevent water from seeping into your home.
- Clear gutters and drains: Make sure your gutters, downspouts, and storm drains are clear of debris to help water flow freely and reduce the risk of water accumulating around your home.
Build a Disaster Kit
Disaster kits are essential to disaster preparedness. They should contain:
- Important documents (see document checklist further down on this page)
- Non-perishable food and a supply of water
- First aid kit
- Cash
- Flashlight
- Radio
- Cell phone and charger
- Batteries
- Chargers for electronic devices
How to Prepare an Emergency Kit
Disaster Services Funded In Part By:
The information provided on this website does not, and is not intended to, constitute legal advice; instead, all information, content, and materials available on this site are for general informational purposes only.
Sponsor Recognition Disclaimer
Florida Rural Legal Services, Inc. (FRLS) is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt nonprofit organization. We gratefully acknowledge the generous support of our sponsors and partners. In accordance with IRS regulations and Florida Statute 496.411, all sponsor recognition provided by FRLS is value-neutral and non-promotional.
Sponsor acknowledgments may include the sponsor’s name, logo, website, contact information, and general location. FRLS does not promote, endorse, or advertise any sponsor’s services or products. No calls to action, qualitative claims, pricing information, or comparative language will be used in any recognition content. This ensures full compliance with charitable solicitation laws and helps protect the integrity of our mission. For questions regarding sponsorship or this policy, please contact the FRLS Marketing & Communications Department at Marketing@FRLS.org .
Service areas: Lee, Polk, Palm Beach, St. Lucie, Martin, Okeechobee, Indian River, Highlands, Hardee, Hendry, Charlotte, Desoto, and Glade Counties.
© 2025