In the event of a hurricane, the Florida Department of Health in Broward County (DOH-Broward) leads the ESF 8 Health and Medical Response at the Emergency Operations Center if activated. DOH-Broward is also responsible for the medical management and staffing of Special Needs Shelters (SpNS), if activated. DOH-Broward works in coordination with Broward County Emergency Management, hospitals, emergency medical services providers, as well as other ESF #8 partners. A SpNS is a place to go when there is no other sheltering option.
Shelters may be activated during an emergency event to provide mass care for people who cannot safely remain in their home. SpNS are designed to meet the needs of people who require assistance that exceeds services provided at a general population shelter. SpNS are intended to provide, to the extent possible under emergency conditions, an environment that can sustain an individual’s level of health.
We strongly recommend that children and adults register in advance.
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.