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.
While the Florida Department of Health in Indian River County’s daily function provides clinical, nutritional, and environmental services to residents of Indian River County, we also fulfill 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.
Examples of our response efforts include:
- Staffing for a special needs shelter during a hurricane to assist people with special medical needs.
- Environmental assessments post-hurricane.
- Immunizations to populations at risk during epidemics.
Additional information on preparing and responding to emergencies can be found on the following websites:
Florida Department of Health Emergency Preparedness & Response webpage