PERSONAL INFORMATION TO HELP YOU THROUGH A DISASTER

Transcription

1 Emergency Operations Plan Fort Myers Beach, Florida Citizen Preparedness Special Supplement! PERSONAL INFORMATION TO HELP YOU THROUGH A DISASTER TITLE Before a Storm If You Remain in Your Home If You Go to an Emergency Shelter What About Your Pet? After a Storm Precautions During a Power Outage Portable Generator Safety Tips Coping Without Water Coping Without Sewage Consumer Protection Tips Construction Help for the Elderly and Disabled Looking for a Contractor Insurance and Claims Tips Hurricane Preparation Myths and Facts Preparedness for People with Special Needs Persons with Special Needs Evacuation Checklist Food Safety Food Safety Contact Information Household Emergency Preparedness Plan TAB A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT 1 CITIZEN PREPAREDNESS

2 TAB A BEFORE A STORM Before a tropical storm or hurricane strikes Southwest Florida, and before each hurricane season: YOUR HOUSEHOLD SHOULD PREPARE AN EMERGENCY PLAN. Do you plan to evacuate? If so, where will you go? How will you get there? What route(s) will you take? When will you leave? What will you take with you? Who will you notify? If you are permitted to stay in your home, and you plan to stay, do you have all the supplies you ll need for at least 72 hours? Check your disaster supply kit and obtain items you need. Do you have the materials on hand to protect your home and your personal property? Purchase materials you need such as plywood, shutters, plastic sheeting, nails etc. If you plan to go to an emergency shelter, do you have shelter supplies ready to take with you? Have you made arrangements for your pet(s) and any family members with special needs? REMEMBER Residents in mobile homes may be ordered to evacuate earlier than the general population depending upon potential weather conditions. TAB A 1 BEFORE A STORM

3 The Town of Fort Myers Beach is in a Level A Evacuation Zone. If you are ordered to evacuate, secure your home and leave immediately. Failure to obey an evacuation order is a violation of Florida law. If you re going to leave the SW Florida area, or go to a hotel, you should leave as early as possible. TAB A 2 BEFORE A STORM

4 THINGS YOU NEED TO DO BEFORE A TROPICAL STORM OR HURRICANE Fuel your car(s) Bring all outdoor objects such as lawn furniture and garden tools inside. Trim all trees and shrubs and remove all dead limbs. Clean your gutters and bring all potted plants inside. Install storm shutters or cover your windows with plywood. The cheapest, most popular method to protect your windows is to cover them with plywood. Use 5/8 inch think marine plywood. If your home is made of concrete block, you ll need to attach masonry anchors to your house before fastening down the plywood. If you have more time and money, storm shutters are the best way to protect your windows and doors from damage. Impact-resistant shutters protect from wind-borne objects and also reduce damage from pressure changes that can shatter a window or door. Another option for storm-resistant windows is to have laminated systems made of plastic bonded to glass. Secure all inside and outside doors. Make sure you have a deadbolt and at least 3 hinges on each door for maximum strength. For garage doors, consider buying a kit to fit them with cross-bracing. You can buy a kit at your local hardware store. Secure your boat. Turn your refrigerator and freezer to the highest settings. Unplug all small non-essential appliances. Turn off the LP gas. Fill sinks and bathtub(s) with water. Prepare your finances. Get an extra supply of cash and traveler s checks. Store copies of your prescriptions, bank accounts, insurance policies, and other financial information. Keep birth certificates, passports, marriage licenses, custody papers, titles and deeds to houses and cars, and other TAB A 3 BEFORE A STORM

5 judicial documents in a very safe place! Send to a friend or relative, or take them with you when you evacuate. Purchase a batter-powered radio and extra batteries. Inventory your property. A video tape is excellent, or at a minimum, take pictures. Review your insurance information. Whether you own or rent, have enough insurance for the area. Remember, homeowners insurance usually doesn t cover floods or other disasters. Investigate purchasing house-replacement insurance. Some options will finance building your house back to its previous condition following a disaster. Others will be bound to specific monetary limits. Have replacement-cost insurance for your most costly possessions. Most coverage will pay only for the depreciated value of your things. You won t be compensated for the price of replacing them. Make sure the address is clearly marked on your place of residence. TAB A 4 BEFORE A STORM

6 TAB B PRECUATIONS TO FOLLOW IF YOU ARE PERMITTED TO STAY IN YOUR HOME DURING A TROPICAL STORM OR HURRICANE Stay away from doors and windows Even if they are covered. Take refuge in an interior room As far from the outside walls as possible. If you live in a multistory dwelling, choose a room on the first floor. Secure/brace all exterior doors Close all interior doors. Lie under a table or beneath a mattress During the height of a storm. Remain indoors Until the proper authorities tell you it is safe to go outside. SUPPLIES YOU LL NEED IF YOU DECIDE TO STAY WATER: Store water in a plastic container. Store one gallon of water per person per day for 14 days. Fill bathtubs and sinks with water for sanitation use. Have plenty of water purification tablets and bleach on hand. FOOD: Store at least 14 days of non-perishable food. Select foods that require no cooking, refrigeration or preparation. If you must heat food, pack a can of sterno. TAB B 1 IF YOU REMAIN IN YOUR HOME

7 FIRST AID KIT: It s a good idea to have 2 first aid kits, one for your home and one in your car. Your kits should include bandages, scissors, tweezers, soap, latex gloves, lubricant, assorted sizes of safety pins, necessary nonprescription drugs, antiseptic, tape, compresses, non-aspirin pain reliever, anti-diarrhea medication. TOOLS AND OTHER SUPPLIES: Have a basic tool kit on hand with items you feel necessary to make temporary repairs after a storm. Consider plastic sheeting or tarp for you roof, paper plates and plastic utensils, plenty of toilet paper, clean-up supplies (mops, buckets and disinfectant), flashlights and batteries, non-electric can opener, fire extinguisher, tent, matches, aluminum foil, plastic storage containers, plastic garbage bags, a small shovel, insect repellent, sunscreen and personal hygiene items. Have a portable radio with plenty of batteries, charcoal, a grill and extra cash. CLOTHING AND BEDDING: Some clothing and bedding should be protected in waterproof boxes, plastic bags or other suitable containers. Keep at least one change of clothes and shoes, and several pairs of socks on hand for each person. Consider having boots, gloves, rain gear, blankets or sleeping bags, towels and sunglasses on hand. SPECIAL ITEMS: Battery jump-start kit with charger adapter. For children, have plenty of baby food, diapers, bottles and medications. Fill your prescriptions before the storm (2 weeks supply). Secure an extra set of eyeglasses and hearing aid batteries if necessary. Vitamins. Medications for routine illnesses such as colds etc. Laundry detergent. Bleach. Whistle or air horn to call for assistance. TAB B 2 IF YOU REMAIN IN YOUR HOME

8 TAB C GOING TO AN EMERGENCY EVACUATION SHELTER? Hurricane evacuation shelters are provided for public use in the event a hurricane evacuation is necessary and IF YOU HAVE NO OTHER PLACE TO GO. It is strongly recommended that you make other arrangements with a friend or relative if you have to evacuate the island, or make reservations at a hotel. You will be more comfortable, in a lesscrowded environment and among friends. Many churches will provide shelter for members. Businesses should consider sheltering employees and families if possible. REMEMBER Alcohol, weapons and pets ARE NOT permitted in public shelters. Buildings used for public shelters are usually public schools and are crowded, usually uncomfortable when the power goes off, may be poorly ventilated, have long lines at rest rooms and food vendors, and can be very nosy, making it difficult to sleep. You may have to remain in a public shelter for several days or longer. THINGS YOU NEED TO TAKE TO A PUBLIC SHELTER A change of clothing, rain gear and sturdy shoes Toiletries and personal items. Pillows, blankets, sleeping bags or an air mattress. Folding chairs, lawn chairs or cots. Identification papers (drivers license, insurance papers, property inventories, passport). Games or toys for children, books for adults. Special items for infants or elderly family members. Any special dietary needs and non-perishable snack foods. Battery-powered radio, flashlight(s) and plenty of spare batteries. TAB C 1 GOING TO AN EMERGENCY SHELTER

9 Prescription medications or any over-the-counter medications you take. TAB C 2 GOING TO AN EMERGENCY SHELTER

10 TAB D WHAT ABOUT YOUR PET? Take the time to plan how you will protect your pet(s) during an emergency. IF YOU PLAN TO EVACUATE TO A PUBLIC SHELTER Make arrangements for you pet(s) if you plan to evacuate to a public shelter. Public shelters WILL NOT accept pets. If you can t take you pet(s) with you, make arrangements with a kennel or animal clinic. Make your arrangements as soon as possible. When a storm is approaching spaces at kennels and clinics fill up rapidly. IF YOU PLAN TO TAKE YOUR PET(S) WITH YOU Take these items with you: A secure pet carrier of appropriate size. Food and water bowls. A one-week supply of dry food per pet. Water in plastic containers. Pet medications and health records. Leashes and muzzles (if necessary). TAB D 1 WHAT ABOUT YOUR PET

11 Paper towels for cleanup. IF YOU PLAN TO TAKE YOUR PET(S) TO A HOTEL Many hotels accept pets, especially in emergency situations. If you plan on going to a hotel: Determine in advance if pets are welcome and what, if any, special rules apply. Photograph you pet and include these pictures in health records. Take current immunization records and a collar with proper ID. IF YOU MUST LEAVE YOUR PET AT HOME Try to secure them in a safe area in your home. Ensure they are wearing collars with proper ID. Don t leave cats and dogs in the same place. Leave at least 3-days worth of food and plenty of water. Leave access to elevated places in the case of flooding. WHAT TO DO WITH YOUR PET(S) AFTER A STORM Walk your pets with a leash until they become reoriented to their home and surroundings. REMEMBER: downed power lines and debris pose risks for you and your pet(s). Don t let your pet(s) consume food or water which may have been contaminated. Local animal services of Lee County: (239) Humane Society of Lee County: (239) TAB D 2 WHAT ABOUT YOUR PET

12 TAB E AFTER A STORM Keep listening to your local radio and television stations for information. Remember, if you loose the cable, but still have electrical power, you can continue to have access to your local television stations for important emergency information. Disconnect the cable and tune to pre-cable era UHF/VHF channels. If you evacuated, return home only when authorities advise that it is safe. Drive only if it is absolutely necessary. Immediately following a storm debris may be covering roadways making them impassable. Emergency crews may be working to clear roadways and it may take hours or days for them to clear them all. AVOID sightseeing. DON T drive in flooded areas. STAY on firm ground. 6 inches of moving water can sweep you off your feet. Standing water may also be electrically charged from downed power lines. BEWARE of downed power lines. They may be charged and dangerous. BEWARE of snakes, insects and animals driven to higher ground by flood waters. TAB E 1 AFTER A STORM

13 Enter your home with extreme caution. Beware of fallen objects and damaged roof and wall sections. Remove shutters or plywood over windows and doors to ventilate and dry out your home if necessary. CHECK gas, water, and electrical lines and appliances for damage. Don t attempt to repair damaged gas or electrical lines. Call a professional DON T drink or prepare food with tap water until you are certain it is not contaminated. AVOID using candles or other open flames indoors. Use a flashlight or other battery-powered lighting. Use the telephone to report emergencies only. This includes cell phones. TAB E 2 AFTER A STORM

14 TAB F RECAUTIONS DURING A POWER OUTAGE In many emergencies, especially during tropical storms and hurricanes, a power outage should be anticipated. Some outages may last as long as hours or more. Whether a power outage is the result of a grid failure or severe weather, here are safety tips to follow if or when the power goes out. Include power outages in your household emergency plan. Get an extra supply of cash. Have some non-perishable food on hand. If you have a pet(s), keep an extra supply of food on hand. Open the refrigerator or freezer as little as possible. Food will generally be food for only 4 6 hours during a power outage. Have one or more coolers for food storage on hand. Have an emergency power supply on hand for anyone in your household dependent on medical equipment that requires electricity. Keep a flashlight and batteries on hand Have a battery-powered radio. Turn off any electrical equipment that was in use prior to the power outage. TAB F 1 PRECAUTIONS DURING A POWER OUTAGE

15 Turn off and unplug all non-essential electrical equipment. Fuel your car(s). DON T call 911 for information related to the power outage. To get information, use your battery-powered radio. Check on your neighbors, friends or relatives to see if they need assistance during a power outage. When power is restored, wait a few minutes before turning on major appliances to help eliminate problems caused by a sharp increase in demand. TAB F 2 PRECAUTIONS DURING A POWER OUTAGE

16 TAB G PORTABLE GENERATOR SAFETY TIPS Portable electric generators offer great benefits when a power outage affects your home. Here are some safety tips for connecting and operating a portable generator. DON T connect a portable generator to your home s wiring. It could feedback into the power lines. Transformers could step-up the feedback to thousands of volts and seriously injure or kill utility linemen. The ONLY safe way to connect a generator to your home s wiring is to have a licensed electrical contractor install a transfer switch. This switch safely transfers power from the utility lines to the power coming from your generator. TAB G 1 PORTABLE GENERATOR SAFETY TIPS

17 DON T plug a portable electric generator into a regular household outlet. This could energize dead power lines and injure neighbors or utility workers. Connect only individual appliances to the receptacle outlet on the portable electric generator. Be sure the cords on these appliances have the appropriate wire gauge to handle the electrical load of the generator. DON T overload the generator. Do not operate more appliances and equipment than the output rating of the generator. Overloading can seriously damage your appliances. Prioritize your need for power. A portable electric generator should only used when necessary and to power essential equipment only. Use gas-powered generators in well-ventilated areas only. Operate only in well-ventilated, dry areas, away from intakes into your home. Operate in areas that protect the generator from rain. You can safely operate a generator under a tarp or canopy, or in a carport. NEVER use a generator indoors or in an attached garage. A portable generator emits deadly carbon monoxide. Be sure to place the generator where exhaust fumes will not enter your home. Use the proper power cords. Plug individual appliances into the receptacle outlet on the generator using heavy-duty, outdoor-rated cords with a wire gauge adequate for the appliance load. Overloaded cords can cause fires or damage the appliance. Don t run power cords under rugs where heat can build up or cord damage can go un-noticed. TAB G 2 PORTABLE GENERATOR SAFETY TIPS

18 Read and adhere to the manufacturer s instructions. Don t cut corners when it comes to safety. Carefully read and observe all the instructions in the portable electric generator s owner s manual. Make sure your portable generator is properly grounded. To prevent electrical shocks. Consult your owner s manual for correct grounding procedures. DON T store fuel indoors or try to refuel a portable generator while it is running. Store gasoline and other flammable liquids outside of living areas in properly-labeled non-glass containers. They should not be stored in a garage if a fuel-burning appliance is also in the garage. Fuel vapors can travel invisibly along the ground and be ignited by pilot lights or electric arcs caused by turning on lights. AVOID spilling fuel on hot components. Put out all flames or cigarettes when handling gasoline. TURN OFF all equipment powered by a portable generator before shutting down the generator. AVOID getting burned. Man portable generator parts are hot enough to cause severe burns during operation. KEEP a fire extinguisher handy when using a portable generator. KEEP CHILDREN AWAY FROM PORTABLE ELECTRIC GENERATORS AT ALL TIMES! TAB G 3 PORTABLE GENERATOR SAFETY TIPS

19 TAB H TIPS ON COPING WITHOUT WATER If you have exhausted your water supplies and have a well, you can follow water purification procedures until water service is restored. Your HOT WATER HEATER is a source of water. Shut off your hot water heater. Close the inlet valve. Drain the sediment until the water runs clear. Open the inlet valve and refill the hot water heater. If you use this for water, and your electricity is off, be sure to turn off the circuit breaker so the heating elements don t burn out when the power is restored. Contaminated water can contain microorganisms that cause disease. PURIFY ALL WATER if you re uncertain of it. WATER PURIFICATION METHODS There is more than one way to purify water. None of them is perfect. Often the best solution is a combination of methods. Before using any of these methods, let any suspended particles settle to the bottom, or strain them through layers of clean cloth. FIRST METHOD: BOILING is the safest way to purify water. Bring water to a rolling boil for 10 minutes, keeping in mind that some water will evaporate. Let the water cool before drinking. Boiled water will taste better if you put oxygen back into it. Do this by pouring water back and forth between two containers. This will also improve the taste of stored water. TAB H 1 COPING WITHOUT WATER

20 SECOND METHOD: CHLORINATION uses pure, unscented liquid chlorine bleach to kill microorganisms in water. Add 2 drops of bleach per quart of water (4 drops if the water is cloudy). Stir and let stand for 30 minutes. If the water does not smell or taste of chlorine at that point ass another 2 drops and let stand another 15 minutes. THIRD METHOD: PURIFICATION TABLETS release chlorine and iodine into the water. Tablets are inexpensive and available at most sporting goods and drug stores. Follow directions on the package. Usually 1 tablet is enough for 1 quart of water. Double the dose for cloudy water. TAB H 2 COPING WITHOUT WATER

21 TAB I TIPS ON COPING WITH NO SEWAGE EMERGENCY RESTROOM FACILITIES If available, use the bathroom in a camper or motor home that has a holding tank until the tank is full. CONSTRUCTING A CHEMICAL PORT-A-JOHN A chemical port-a-john can be easily constructed. Use 5-gallon buckets lined with heavy-duty garbage bags. Add 1/4 cup of lime or regular, unscented, liquid chlorine bleach to the bucket as a disinfectant and deodorizer. Keep lids on firmly. Keep the buckets in a cool dark place. DO NOT DISPOSE OF HUMAN WASTE THROUGH YOUR REGULAR TRASH PICK-UP. Dispose of the waste in the buckets by flushing it down your toilet as soon as sewer service is restored. Clean and disinfect the buckets immediately when sewer service is restored. TAB I 1 COPING WITHOUT SEWAGE

22 TAB J CONSUMER PROTECTION TIPS Following a disaster, home repairs may be the most stressful time for a consumer. The following tips will assist you in identifying unlicensed contractors and con artists. BE EXTREMELY CAUTIOUS of anyone approaching you offering to do home repairs. BE ALERT to individuals canvassing your neighborhood in an unmarked van or truck. INSIST on a written estimate or contract for any home repairs. Obtain estimates from several companies. BE SURE the contract or business card of any contractor has an address, telephone number and license number. ASK any prospective contractor for references and check them out for yourself. DON T be pressured into making a quick decision. INSIST on start and completion dates in the contract. DON T pay the final balance until the work is completed to your satisfaction. TAB J 1 CONSUMER PROTECTION TIPS

23 WHEN CHOOSING A CONTRACTOR ASK THE FOLLOWING QUESTIONS: How long has the contractor been in business? Is the contractor licensed and insured? Can the contractor provide references? Does the contractor warranty their work? TAB J 2 CONSUMER PROTECTION TIPS

24 TAB K BUILDER S CARE A non-profit construction company affiliated with the Lee County Building industry Association MISSION: To provide NO-COST repairs and construction services to: Elderly Disabled Economically disadvantaged homeowners who do not have traditional means of obtaining these services. TO GET INFORMATION Get an application on line at: OR: Call TAB K 1 CONSTRUCTION HELP FOR THE ELDERLY & DISABLED

25 TAB L ARE YOU LOOKING FOR A CONTRACTOR? The DISASTER CONTRACTORS NETWORK (DCN) is a web-based network designed to connect contractors and home and business owners who need repairs after a disaster. The network also connects contractors with needed sub-contractors and material vendors. TO GET INFORMATION Go on-line at: Click on the Florida map If you re a home or business owner who is looking for a contractor click on General Public. Then go to either Information or Search Resources TAB L 1 LOOKING FOR A CONTRACTOR

26 TAB M INSURANCE AND CLAIMS TIPS Report property damage to your insurance agent immediately following a storm Your agent should provide you with claim forms and arrange for an adjuster to visit your property and assess the damage. Make emergency repairs and document them. Keep all receipts and take pictures of the damages, before and after the repairs, to submit with our claim. Take precautions if the damages require you to leave your home. Secure your property. Remove valuable items. Lock doors and windows. Contact your insurance agent and leave a phone number where you can be reached. TAB N 1 HURRICANE MYTHS AND FACTS

27 TAB N HURRICANE PREPARATION MYTHS AND FACTS 1. When a hurricane passes over, it is true I should have the windows open on the side of the house that faces the wind? NO. Hurricane winds swirl from all directions and exert both pressure and suction. If wind gets into your home it will seek a way out, blowing out the roof or ceiling, collapsing a gable end or a garage door. Your goal is to keep the wind out, period. 2. Does taping my windows with duct or masking tape help? NO. It doesn t keep your windows from breaking and it takes away time for more useful tasks before a storm. What it will do is leave a gooky residue on your windows that you will have to clean off. 3. Is it true that the county will send someone to evacuate me? NO. When the storm is bearing down on you, emergency personnel may decline to go into a life-threatening situation. EVACUATE WHEN YOU RE TOLD TO. 4. Can I re-use the sandbags I got last hurricane season? YES. If you ve stored them in a dry spot indoors. The bags may deteriorate or become moldy if exposed to sun, eater and insects. Inspect them before re-using. 5. How long can I keep bottled water? It depends on who bottled it. If you refilled a water bottle from a water cooler or the tap, it is best used within two weeks if it s been refrigerated, or within a day if it has been standing at room temperature. If it was bottled commercially, it is generally good TAB N 2 HURRICANE MYTHS AND FACTS

28 indefinitely, even if there is an expiration date on the bottle (some laws require expiration dates on all packaged foods). 6. If I don t have a waterproof safe, where s the best place in my hose to store important documents during a storm? The dishwasher is a good place. Dishwashers are usually anchored to cabinets and plumbing, are waterproof and have locking doors. 7. What are the wind speed restrictions for being able to cross bridges in Lee County? Bridges and roads are not barricaded closed. However, Emergency Management will advise people not to travel when sustained winds reach tropical storm force, over 39 mph. This is also the point where first responders (fire, EMS and law enforcement) go to shelter and will no longer respond to calls. When sustained winds reach 39+ mph, gusts are typically already higher and gusts on bridges will be even higher still. This makes travel of any kind very dangerous. 8. I am visiting the area and want to leave. Is there a special phone number for visitors to get information? Visitors should call Visit Florida at TAB N 3 HURRICANE MYTHS AND FACTS

29 TAB O MAKING SURE NO ONE IS LEFT BEHIND Disaster Preparedness for Persons with Mobility Impairments People with Special Needs (PSN) As part of Lee County s disaster preparedness programs, the Office of Emergency Management maintains a People with Special Needs registration program designed for people who: Have physical or mental conditions or limitations such as having or being: visually or hearing impaired, wheelchair bound, or having respiratory problems. Need help with daily living activities such as eating, bathing or mobility. Are dependent on medications or medical treatment such as oxygen, electric life-support or dialysis. Are bedridden and require custodial care upon the advice of a personal physician if evacuated. Need transportation to a public shelter in case of a disaster because they live alone or are without the support of family, friends or neighbors. TAB O 1 PEOPLE WITH SPECIAL NEEDS

30 HOW TO PRE-REGISTER AS A PSN You must pre-register for special needs evacuation center placement as soon as possible. Applications are reviewed and the applicant is assigned to adequate facilities that meet their medical needs or conditions including: Lee County Emergency Shelters or Red Cross shelters Nursing homes or hospitals (as arranged in advance by your physician) Special Needs shelters NOTE: registration does not guarantee assignment to a Special Needs shelter TO REGISTER GO on-line at: OR Call: or 3640 WHAT IS AT A SPECIAL NEEDS SHELTER Lee County Special Needs shelters provide cots, meals, oxygen and volunteer medical personnel to assist with the administration of medication and oxygen, and mobility and monitoring of stable medical conditions. WHAT IF I REQUIRE 24-HOUR MEDICAL CARE? The Special Needs program CANNOT provide 24-hour skilled care. Those persons who require skilled medical care on a 24-hour basis should contact their medical professional to make arrangements if hospital or nursing home admission will be required. TAB O 2 PEOPLE WITH SPECIAL NEEDS

31 WHAT DO I DO IF I KNOW SOMEONE WHO NEEDS TO BE REGISTERED IN THE SPECIAL NEEDS PROGRAM? If you know someone who needs to be registered in the Lee County Special Needs program, please call the Office of Emergency Management and request a PSN registration packet. Lee County PSN Registration or 3640 HOW DOES PSN EVACUATION WORK? In the event of a disaster, or impending disaster, the Special Needs program will provide or coordinate transportation, special evacuation assistance, and placement in adequate shelters that meet the client s medical needs or conditions. Persons with Special Needs must be evacuated up to 24 hours prior to the evacuation of the general public due to the limited resources at hospitals, nursing homes, shelters, and personnel. When a storm appears to be a threat to SW Florida, a first-call-out message will be delivered from 36 to 48 hours before expected landfall. This call advises the client of the threat. The message may also include initial information regarding evacuation preparation procedures. If it appears likely that our area will be impacted by a storm, the client will receive a second call updating the situation and advising what actions should be taken and when. If transportation is required, the client will be given the approximate time for pick up. The client and any caregiver(s) who will assist, must be ready to go when the transportation arrives. When an evacuation is mandatory, Lee County will send out vans, school buses with wheelchair lifts, handi-buses and ambulances to take registered Special Needs clients to their pre-determined destination: a Red Cross or Lee County shelter, a Special Needs shelter, nursing home, or hospital as pre-arranged by your doctor only. TAB O 3 PEOPLE WITH SPECIAL NEEDS

32 The Special Needs program DOES NOT transport PSN to hotels or the homes of friends or relatives. The client must arrange private transportation if this is the desired destination. BE PREPARED! WHEN EVACUATED AS A PSN: Take everything with you you ll need for 72 hours. Review the PSN Evacuation Checklist and comply with all items. TAB O 4 PEOPLE WITH SPECIAL NEEDS

33 TAB P PSN EVACUATION CHECKLIST Listed below are actions you should take BEFORE evacuation transportation assistance arrives at our home. You and your caregiver(s) MUST be ready when your evacuation transportation arrives, even if the sun is shining. The storm is on the way! Remember that you are only one of many registered citizens who need assistance. HERE ARE THE THINGS YOU SHOULD DO BEFORE YOU ARE PICKED UP 1. Keep a bag always packed ready to go with the following items DONE Medications for 2-3 weeks, list of medications, name of physician, walker, wheelchair and other medical equipment required If oxygen dependent, bring all equipment. Emergency oxygen will be provided. Clean clothes for 3 days. Personal hygiene items. House and car keys. Personal phone book or list of important numbers. Important papers and identification in a zip-lock bag if possible. Folding chair, lawn chair or cot. Blankets and pillow(s). Reading materials to pass the time. Non-perishable food items for 1-2 meals while the shelter becomes full operational to meet your dietary needs. 2. Take care of all medical needs such as dialysis when you know a storm is approaching. 3. Call your caregiver(s) and family members, including those out-of-state, to inform them of your plans to evacuate. 4. If possible before you leave your home, turn off the gas and electricity. 5. Make plans for your pet(s). They WILL NOT be allowed in the shelter. Make sure they have proper ID tags on them. Please have them evacuated before your PSN transportation arrives. The emergency workers WILL NOT be able to assist you with our pet(s). IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS PLEASE CALL EMERGENCY MANAGERS FORT MYERS BEACH LEE COUNTY TAB P 1 SPECIAL NEEDS EVACUATION CHECKLIST

34 TAB Q CONSUMERS GUIDE TO FOOD SAFETY DURING SEVERE STORMS AND HURRICNAES All kinds of emergencies--floods, fire, tornadoes, or the loss of power from high winds during severe storms and hurricanes--jeopardize the safety of your food supply. Knowing how to determine if food is safe and how to keep food safe will help minimize the potential loss of food and reduce the risk of food-borne illness. The following tips will help you make the right decisions for keeping your family safe during an emergency. FOOD SAFETY DURING POWER OUTAGES Obtaining and storing food safely during a power outage can be very challenging. Follow the steps below to prepare for a possible power outage: Keep an appliance thermometer in your refrigerator and freezer. Make sure your freezer is set at 0 degrees F or below and the refrigerator is at 40 degrees F or below. Freeze containers of water for ice to help keep food cold in the freezer, refrigerator, or coolers after the power is out. Freeze refrigerated items such as leftovers, milk, and fresh meat and poultry that you don t need immediately. This helps keep them at a safe temperature longer. Know where dry ice or block ice can be purchased in your neighborhood. Store food on shelves that will be safely out the way of contaminated water in case of a flood. Have coolers on hand to keep refrigerator food cold if the power is out for more than 4 hours. Group food together in the freezer this helps the food stay cold longer. TAB Q 1 FOOD SAFETY

35 FOOD SAFETY TIPS DURING AND AFTER AN EMERGENCY NEVER taste food to determine if it is safe to eat. Keep the refrigerator and freezer doors closed as much as possible to maintain the cold temperature. The refrigerator will keep food safely cold for about 4 hours if it is unopened. A full freezer will hold the temperature for approximately 48 hours (24 hours if it is half full and the door remains closed). Food may be refrozen if it still contains ice crystals or is at 40 degrees F or below. Obtain block or dry ice to keep your refrigerator and freezer as cold as possible if the power goes out. Fifty pounds of ice should hold an 18- cubic foot full freezer for 2 days. If the power has been off for several days, check the temperature of the freezer with an appliance thermometer. If the food still contains ice crystals or is at 40 degrees F or below, the food is safe. If a thermometer has not been kept in the freezer, check each package of food to determine its safety. If the food still contains ice crystals it is safe. Discard refrigerated perishable food such as meat, poultry, fish, soft cheese, milk, eggs, leftovers, and deli items after 4 hours without power. Drink only bottled water if flooding has occurred. WHEN IN DOUBT.THROW IT OUT! TAB Q 2 FOOD SAFETY

36 HOW TO DETERMINE WHAT FOOD TO KEEP OR DISCARD DON T eat any food that may have come in contact with flood waters. DISCARD any food that is not in a waterproof container if there is any chance it has come into contact with flood waters. Food containers that are not waterproof and cannot be cleaned and sanitized include: Screw caps Snap lids Pull tops Crimped caps Cardboard juice, milk, baby formula boxes Home canned foods INSPECT canned foods and discard any in damaged cans. Cans which are damaged show: Swelling Leakage Punctures Holes Fractures Extensive deep rusting Crushing/denting sever enough to prevent normal stacking or opening with a wheel-type can opener TAB Q 3 FOOD SAFETY

37 KEEPING YOUR COOKING UTENSILS SANITIZED FOLLOWING A STORM: Thoroughly WASH metal pans, ceramic dishes and utensils with hot soap and waster if available. RINSE them and SANITIZE by boiling in clean water or immersing them for 15 minutes in a solution of 1 tablespoon of unscented, liquid chlorine bleach per gallon of water. Thoroughly WASH all countertops in your home with soap and hot water if available. RINSE countertops by applying a solution of 1 tablespoon of unscented liquid chlorine bleach per gallon of water. Allow to airdry. TAB Q 4 FOOD SAFETY

38 SALVAGING ALL-METAL CANS AND POUCHES Undamaged, commercially prepared foods in all-metal cans or pouches such as flexible, shelf-stable juice or seafood pouches can be saved if you do the following: REMOVE the labels if you can since they can harbor dirt or bacteria. Thoroughly WASH the cans and pouches with hot soap and water. RINSE the cans and pouches with safe water. SANITIZE the cans and pouches in one of the following ways: Place in boiling water for 2 minutes Place in a solution of 1 tablespoon of unscented liquid chlorine bleach per gallon of safe water for 15 minutes. AIR-DRY cans or pouches for a minimum of 1 hour before opening or storing. USE food in reconditioned cans or pouches as soon as possible after you ve sanitized them. DILUTE any concentrated baby formula in reconditioned all-metal containers with clean water. BE SURE TO WRITE THE EXPIRATION DATE ON ANY CANS OR POUCHES AFTER REMOVING THE LABELS TAB Q 5 FOOD SAFETY

39 REMOVING ODORS FROM REFRIGERATORS AND FREEZERS Your refrigerator and freezer are two of the most important appliances in your kitchen for keeping food safe. We are instantly reminded of their importance when the power goes off, flooding occurs, or the unit fails, causing food to spoil and become unsafe to eat. The odors that develop when food spoils can be difficult to remove. Following are tips on removing odors or safely discarding a defective refrigerator or freezer. TO REMOVE ORDORS Dispose of any spoiled or questionable food. Remove shelves, crispers and ice trays. Thoroughly WASH them with soap and hot water. RINSE with a solution of 1 tablespoon of unscented, liquid chlorine bleach per 1 gallon of water. WASH the interior of the unit, including all doors and gaskets with soap, hot water and baking soda. RINSE with the same sanitizing solution as described for the shelves. Leave the door open for about 15 minutes to allow air to circulate. IF THE ODORS STILL REMAIN WIPE inside the unit with equal parts vinegar and water. The vinegar destroys mildew. OR Leave the door open and allow to air out for a few days. OR Stuff the unit with rolled newspaper. Close the door and leave for several days. Remove the paper and clean with water and vinegar. OR Sprinkle fresh coffee grounds or baking soda loosely in large, shallow container in the bottom of the unit. OR Place a cotton swab soaked with vanilla inside the unit. Close door for 24 hours. TAB Q 6 FOOD SAFETY

40 TO DISCARD A REFRIGERATOR OR FREEZER If an odor cannot be removed from your refrigerator or freezer you may need to discard it. CHILDPROOF old units so that children don t play in them. The surest way to do this is to take the doors off. If the door with not come off, CHAIN and PADLOCK the doors permanently and close tightly, or remove or disable the latch completely so the door will no long lock when closed. Depending upon where you live, your old appliance will be picked up by your solid waste provider, a recycler, a retailer (if you buy a new unit), or a program sponsored by local utilities. IT IS UNLAWFUL IN MANY JURISDICTIONS TO DISCARD OLD REFRIGERATORS WITHOUT FIRST REMOVING THE DOOR. TAB Q 7 FOOD SAFETY

41 TAB R FOOD SAFETY CONTACTS FOR AREAS AFFECTED BY SEVERE STORMS AND HURRICANES USDA FOOD SAFETY AND INSPECTION SERVICE The USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) and other agencies respond to questions about food safety following a disaster. Consumers with questions can call toll-free. USDA MEAT AND POULTRY HOTLINE TTY: Available in English or Spanish 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. ET Monday Friday Or log on to for the automated response system Or send an to: MPHotline.fsis@usda.gov CENTERS FOR DISEASE CONTROL AND PREVENTION For information on hazards, safe clean-up, and preventing illness and injuries TTY: Available in English and Spanish 24 hours a day, 7 days week TAB R 1 FOOD SAFETY CONTACT INFORMATION

42 FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION For information on safe food handling for foods other than meats, poultry, or egg products Or go to Or the FDA emergency number staffed 24 hours a day: ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY For information on safe drinking water Or go to TAB R 2 FOOD SAFETY CONTACT INFORMATION

43 TAB S HOUSEHOLD EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS PLAN Family Name/Address Names of all Family Members Personal Emergency/Work Contact #s School Contact #s Local Acquaintance Contact #s Local Emergency #s Out-of-Town Contact #s Police Fire/Ambulance Emergency Meeting Place Pharmacy Contact # Doctor Contact # Evacuation Route Medical Information Medications: Local Stations Radio: TV: TAB S 1 HOUSEHOLD EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS PLAN