The Florida Department of Health in Indian River County fulfills an important role in emergency preparedness and response during times of emergencies or disasters.
Working closely with local and state agencies, we strive to help ensure the health and well-being of Indian River County residents and visitors during emergencies by:
- Developing preparedness and response plans
- Exercising plans to ensure their effectiveness
- Providing medical and environmental support prior to, during, and after disasters
- Coordinating county health and medical concerns
Our response efforts include staffing a special needs shelter during a hurricane to assist people with special medical needs, conducting post-hurricane environmental assessments, and immunizing populations at risk during epidemics.
Special Needs Registry
Special needs shelters are for those with disabilities or who require medical care that exceeds basic first aid. Preregistration is important so emergency responders can ensure space is reserved for those with the greatest need.