Hurricane 2011 Edition
Storms and MS are Unpredictable. This is Why We’re Here.
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he National Multiple Sclerosis Society will be available to answer questions or if you need assistance. In the event that our local chapter office closes, call 1 800 FIGHT MS (344-4867). You will be transferred to our Information Resource Center where you can speak to trained counselors for information and support. You can also check our website, www.nmssfls.org, for updates on the status of programs and events. Our National office will maintain the website.
South Florida Chapter
Before The Storm
DEAR FRIENDS, The 2011 Hurricane Season is here! The National MS Society,
South
Florida
Chapter developed this MS Hurricane Resource Guide to aid you in preparing a plan and protecting you and your family. Each hurricane season brings new uncertainty. The predictions for 2011 call for an active and uncharacteristic storm season compared to last year, which
2011 HURRICANE NAMES Names assigned for the 2011 Hurricane Season are: Arlene Gert Marie Tammy Bret Harvey Nate Vince Cindy Irene Ophelia Whitney Don Jose Philippe Emily Katia Rina Franklin Lee Sean
was relatively quiet. Now is the time to make your plans, determine essential items for your emergency kit, and rehearse your strategy. Be aware of all weather conditions this time of year. Wishing you and yours a safe
CLASSIFICATION OF HURRICANES
Hurricane Season.
(Saffir – Simpson Scale) Category Sustained Wind Strength Damage One Two Three Four Five
74-95 miles per hour 96-110 miles per hour 111-130 miles per hour 131-155 miles per hour 156 miles per hour and above
Protecting Your Home Special Needs Page 2 Page 4
Karen Dresbach President
Pet Shelters Page 6
Hurricane Supply Checklist Page 7
Us Help n! ee Go Gr the MS
ve Recei n Online. ectio 4-4867 Conn 0-34 4 to 0 8 1 l 2 Cal 31-42 . 7 4 5 ay or 9 p tod u n g i s
After The Storm Page 11
Tel: 954-731-4224 Fax: 954-739-1398 Publication of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society South Florida Chapter 3201 West Commercial Blvd. Suite 127 Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33309 Chairman Fred Zuckerman Vice Chairmen Joey Epstein Ed Pozzuoli Secretary Diann Geronemus, LCSW Treasurer Kevin R. Conn Chapter President Karen Dresbach Newsletter Editor Jolene Caprio The National Multiple Sclerosis Society does not endorse products, services or manufacturers. Such names appear here solely because they are considered valuable information. The National Multiple Sclerosis Society assumes no liability for the use of contents of any product or service mentioned. Information provided by the Society is based upon professional advice, published experience and expert opinion. Information provided in response to questions does not constitute therapeutic recommendations or prescriptions. The National Multiple Sclerosis Society recommends that all questions and information be discussed with a personal physician. The National Multiple Sclerosis Society is dedicated to ending the devastating effects of MS. © 2011 National Multiple Sclerosis Society, South Florida Chapter
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Protect and Strengthen Your Home for Hurricane Season.
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t is important to take all of the necessary steps to eliminate potential flying objects that can damage your home or other homes in your neighborhood. • F ree-standing objects (e.g., loose roof tiles) should be removed to prevent them from becoming projectiles when strong winds blow. Ask your neighbors to do the same. It is also important to follow some general safety tips for protecting and strengthening your home. • S hield your windows, doors, garage
doors and similar openings to keep winds out of the house and minimize pressure on the roof. • C over all vulnerable areas with securely fastened shutters, or if feasible, replace them with impactresistant systems. • D oors and windows should also be properly caulked and weatherstripped. • H ave your house inspected to confirm that the roof structure is properly anchored to the walls, the walls to the foundation and to reinforce any weak connections.
MS DRUGS and Refrigeration Avonex – Pre-filled syringes should be refrigerated. If unavailable, you can store the Pre-filled syringes at room temperature for a period up to 7 days. Lyophilized Powder should be refrigerated. If unavailable, you can store the Lyophilized Powder at room temperature for a period up to 30 days. If Lyophilized Powder is mixed, it must be used within 6 hours. Betaseron – Should be stored at room temperature (77ºF). Do not freeze. Copaxone – Keep your monthly supply of COPAXONE® Pre-Filled Syringes refrigerated between 36ºF and 46ºF (2ºC-8ºC). COPAXONE® Pre-Filled Syringes may be stored at room temperature between 59ºF and 86ºF (15ºC-30ºC) for up to one month. You’ll want to transport your COPAXONE® in a thermal travel bag to protect it from extreme temperatures, which may cause overheating or freezing. GILENYA – Store at room temperature between 59ºF to 86ºF in the original blister pack in a dry place. Novantrone – Does not require refrigeration. Can be stored at room temperature 77ºF or below. Do not freeze. Rebif – Rebif should be refrigerated between 36º-46ºF. Do not freeze. It may be stored at or below 77ºF for up to 30 days away from heat and light. The Pharmaceutical companies will honor their commitment to do their utmost to replace medication destroyed or lost due to a hurricane. For Further information contact their numbers on page 8.
Hurricane Terminology TROPICAL STORM A tropical system in which the maximum sustained surface wind speed ranges from 39 to 73 mph. A tropical storm can produce a lot of rainfall and wind, which can cause some beach erosion and boat damage. TROPICAL STORM WATCH An announcement that tropical storm conditions are possible within the specified coastal area generally within 48 hours. TROPICAL STORM WARNING An announcement that tropical storm conditions, including sustained winds of 39 to 73 mph, are expected somewhere within the specified coastal area within 36 hours or less.
HURRICANE A tropical cyclone with maximum sustained surface winds of 74 mph or more. A hurricane is the worst and strongest of all tropical systems. HURRICANE WATCH An announcement issued 48 hours in advance that hurricane conditions pose a possible threat to coastal areas. HURRICANE WARNING An announcement issued 36 hours in advance that hurricane conditions are expected somewhere within the specified coastal area. This is the time to get ready for severe weather. High winds and coastal flooding will develop many hours before the eye of the storm actually comes onshore.
9. P lace valuables, photos and copies of important papers in waterproof bags and store in a safe place (safe deposit box). Include photos of the interior and exterior of your home and your driver’s license. Make a list of medications, important names, addresses and phone numbers (e.g., doctors, lawyers, insurance agents, family, friends). Also include a list of account numbers and policy numbers (e.g., health, flood, auto, home).
Below are some tips to help you and your family create a plan: 1. S afeguard your home. Know your home’s vulnerability to storm surge, flooding and wind damage. 2. I f you happen to live in an evacuation zone, know where you will evacuate if you need to (e.g., shelter, friend, relative, hotel). Remember, shelters will be open but they should be considered a last resort.
BEFORE THE STORM
Developing Your Family Plan
8. F or Special Care Needs, pre-registration is required. Call your Office of Emergency Management for more information.
10. P ost emergency telephone numbers by your phones and make sure your children know how and when to call 9-1-1. 11. R eview your insurance coverage as flood damage is often not covered by homeowner’s or renters insurance.
3. I f you plan to stay home, hurricane shutters are your best defense. Practice installing them (or make sure you have someone who can help you install them) before a hurricane approaches.
12. P ay bills before the storm. If you pay bills online or by phone, do it before a hurricane hits, even if they’re not yet due. A hurricane could interrupt phone service, causing you to miss payments and incur late charges. If you pay by mail, send payments at least two days before a hurricane strikes. The post office will not pick up mail within 24 hours of a storm. For even greater peace of mind, set up automatic payment plans to ensure that your payments are made on time.
4. L ocate a safe room or safest area(s) in your home. This is usually an interior room on the lowest floor with no windows or exterior walls (e.g., closet, bathroom, utility rooms) that can provide a second level of protection from airborne debris. 5. Stock your “must-have” supplies in your safe room. 6. D esignate an out-of-state friend as a primary contact so all your family members can have a single point of contact.
13. B e aware of local gas stations in your area that are prepared with generators for after the storm. 14. Remember to take the time now to work on your family plan.
7. M ake a plan now for what to do with your pet(s) if you need to evacuate.
Areas of Particular Concern for Individuals with MS • C reate a support network to help in an emergency. • T ell these people where you keep your emergency supplies. • G ive one member of your support network a key to your house or apartment. • C ontact your city or county government’s emergency information management office. Many local offices keep a list of people with disabilities so they can be located quickly in the case of a sudden emergency. • W ear medical alert tags or bracelets to indicate you have multiple sclerosis. • S how others how to operate your scooter or wheelchair. • K now the size and weight of your scooter or wheelchair; know whether or not your wheelchair is collapsible in case it has to be transported. • A rrange for more then one person from your personal support network to check on you in an emergency. It is important to have at least one back-up in the event your primary person is not available. • I f you are vision impaired, deaf or hard of hearing or unable to use the TV or radio, plan ahead for someone to convey essential emergency information.
• I f you use a personal care attendant obtained from an agency, check to see if the agency has special provisions for emergencies (e.g., providing services at another location should an evacuation be ordered). • I f you live in an apartment, ask the management to identify and mark accessible exits and access to all areas designated for emergency safe rooms. Ask about plans for alerting and evacuating those with sensory disabilities. • H ave a cell phone with an extra battery. If you are unable to get out of a building, you can let someone know where you are and guide them to you. Keep the numbers you may need to call with you if the 9-1-1 emergency number is overloaded. • •
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If You Use a Wheelchair or Scooter H ave a a manual wheelchair for backup. H ave an extra battery. A car battery can also be used with a wheelchair but it will not last as long as a wheelchair’s deep-cycle battery. C heck with your vendor to see if there is an adapter to recharge your wheelchair/scooter battery through the cigarette lighter socket in your car. T each those who may need to assist you in an emergency how to operate necessary equipment. Also, label equipment and attach laminated instructions for equipment use. TOLL FREE NUMBER 1 800 344 4867
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Assistance for Special Needs
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ews that a hurricane is approaching South Florida can be trying and stressful. In the time before a disaster occurs, people rush to prepare for the storm. They shutter their homes, stockpile food and water, and if necessary, they evacuate. But what if you are unable to assist yourself? The Emergency Evacuation Assistance Program (EEAP) is designed to identify and support members of the Miami-Dade community who need assistance evacuating. The Office of Emergency Management (OEM) maintains a registry of those residents who are eligible. In order to receive assistance residents must register for the program. If residents call at the last minute, all attempts will be made to assist them, but the people on the registry will have priority. The application is available in English, Spanish or Creole and can be obtained by contacting 311, 305-513-7700 or online www.miamidade.gov/oem/eeap.asp. Include vital medical information in the application. It will help OEM determine eligibility for the program and the types of services needed. If eligible, the participant will be assigned to an appropriate facility. Space at these facilities is limited. It is also important to note that these shelters offer the same amenities as general population shelters. Evacuees still need to bring their own bedding, food (particularly special dietary needs) and water supplies. These shelters, like the general population shelters, do not allow pets. If you have to evacuate and you use a manual wheelchair, take the tool kit. For motorized scooters, take the battery-pack charger.
Social Networking
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efore the next hurricane is near, add the National MS Society, South Florida Chapter as your friend on Facebook and Twitter. This is a great way to stay informed with quick delivery of storm events. Do not use social networking as your primary source of information but as an additional source to stay up to date. It is also a good idea to become fans of local new stations to keep you in the loop. Find the National MS Society, South Florida Chapter on Facebook www.facebook.com/#!/NMSSSouthFloridaChapter and follow us on Twitter – nmssSFla.
Text Message Tip
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fter the storm, there is limited communications on cell phones because of fallen satellite towers. A quick and easy alternative to talking on your cell phone is text messaging. Text messaging functionality runs on a different frequency range than regular voice frequency. Check with your cellular phone service provider about this feature. If you do not know how to text message, have a friend or family member give you a tutorial. 4
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Special/Medical Needs Shelters & Transportation By County Broward Pre-registration is encouraged. Call (954) 357-6385, (954) 357-5608 TTY or visit www. broward.org/atrisk and click on Special Medical Needs Shelters. You are encouraged to have a caregiver accompany you. Collier Pre-registration is required. Call (239) 252-3600 or visit http://www.colliergov.net/Index. aspx?page=1844. You must have a caregiver accompany you. Glades Pre-registration is required. Call (863) 946-6020. Hendry Pre-registration is required. Call (863) 612-4700. Lee Annual pre-registration is required. Call (239) 533-3640 or visit www.leeeoc.com and click on Special Needs Program. You must have a caregiver accompany you. Martin Pre-registration is required. Call (772) 287-1652 or visit http:// www.martincountyhealth.com/ Special_Needs.html. Caregivers are required to come. Miami-Dade Pre-registration is required. Call (305) 513-7700 or visit www.miamidade.gov/oem/eeap. asp. If you require a caregiver that person should accompany you. Pets are not permitted. Monroe Pre-registration is encouraged. Call (305) 292-4591 or visit http://www.monroecounty-fl.gov/ index.aspx?NID=148. In all category storms, Special Need Clients who have requested transportation to a Special Needs Shelter are taken to a staging area and board a bus to FIU in Miami. Okeechobee Pre-registration is required. Call (863) 462-5819. You must have a caregiver present in the shelter with you. Palm Beach Pre-registration is required. Call (561) 712-6400. Make arrangements for a caregiver to come with you. Pets are not permitted. To pre-register for transportation only call (561) 649-9848.
Financial recovery from a disaster will largely depend on the insurance you carry. Every year you should review your insurance policies for your residence, car and boat to assure your coverage is sufficient. The policy will also have some impact on what you will do after a hurricane. There may be helpful advice, as well as specific rules you will need to follow to make your claims.
includes your house, appliances, computers, sound equipment and other major possessions. When you make an insurance claim, consider you may not get the amount you will need to replace the item. Make sure that your dwelling and personal belongings have replacement coverage, giving you the market price for the item in order to replace. • DEDUCTIBLES: Review your policy deductibles and exclusions so you know what you can expect to pay out of your pocket. Some federal disaster loan programs may be available to cover deductibles.
BEFORE THE STORM RESEARCH
Reviewing Insurance Policies
• WINDSTORM: Make sure that your policy • TEMPORARY LIVING EXPENSES: Homeowners, Condo covers windstorms. Some Homeowners, Owners and Renters should include coverage for additionCondo Owners and Renters policies may not. al living expenses (or loss of use) if your residence becomes • FLOOD INSURANCE: The National Flood Insurance Pro- uninhabitable. gram is the only underwriter for flood damage to buildings • BEFORE AND AFTER PHOTOS: In early June take phoand contents. You will need to have a separate flood insurtos/videos of your residence both inside and out. Make ance policy written in addition to your sure you get clear photos/vidHomeowners, Condo Owner or Renters eos of each room of the house policy. Typically there is a 30-day from that show the appliances and date of purchase before your policy furniture in each. Take photos/ goes into effect, secure the policy in videos of your personal beadvance of the hurricane season. Call longings that may require spethe National Flood Insurance Program cial insurance coverage. Make directly at (800) 638-6620 or visit www. two copies of the pictures/vidfloodsmart.gov to find an agent. eos, one for you and one for the insurance adjuster. Once • REPLACEMENT COVERAGE: As the storm has passed, take the soon as you purchase an item and take same series of pictures/videos. it home it begins to depreciate. This
Shelters – The Last Resort OPTION A Stay at home. If your home can withstand the expected winds, is away from the coast and not in a flood prone area, consider staying at home. Newer homes are constructed to withstand 110 mph winds. Homes built after March 1, 2002 must meet even more stringent wind requirements. OPTION B Stay at a relative or friend’s home or in a hotel outside the evacuation area. If you expect to stay at someone else’s home or a hotel, make advance arrangements. If staying at a friend or relative’s home, be certain it is adequately prepared and is located in a safe area. Consider where you will go if the friend or relative is out of town. OPTION C Relocate out of the area. Emergency Management officials have developed hurricane sheltering and evacuation policies. Officials will issue local statements to inform you of recommended evacuation
routes. Because you may have to travel considerable distances on unfamiliar roads, include a current road map as a part of your disaster supply kit. Know where you are going and plan, not only the best route, but alternate routes also. If possible, leave early to avoid heavy traffic, possible flooding and high winds. If you wait until the Hurricane Warning to leave, you will find hotel rooms extremely scarce throughout Florida. Take into consideration what you are capable of doing and your limitations. Check with your doctor for advice on needed accommodations. OPTION D Public shelters. A Public shelter should be your last option and used only if you have no other safe place to go. Local radio and television will announce which shelters will be open and opening times. Do not report to a shelter until it is open. Familiarize yourself and family with the locations and routes from your home to the shelters. Do not wait until the last minute, if an evacuation order is given, move quickly but without panic. TOLL FREE NUMBER 1 800 344 4867
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Hurricane Kit for Your Pet
Pet Shelters by County Call individual pet shelters to inquire about their policies.
Prepare a hurricane kit for your pets to include: 1. S ecure pet carriers for cats and small dogs and sturdy leashes/ harnesses for larger dogs and appropriate crates or cages for other type pets such as reptiles, birds, etc.
Broward Humane Society Pre-registration is required. Call 954-989-3977 or visit www.humanebroward.com for details.
3. Vaccination paperwork.
Millenium Middle School 5803 NW 94th Ave. Tamarac, FL 33321 (954) 989-3977 # 6 (must pre-register).
4. C urrent photos of your pet(s) in case they get lost. Also, be sure each of your animals have name tags, rabies tags, etc., securely fastened to their collars.
Collier Annual pre-registration is required. Call 239-252-7387 or visit www.colliergov.net/index.aspx?page=1877 Only cats and dogs allowed.
5. Any necessary medication(s). 7. Manual can opener.
Lee Only cats, dogs and birds will be admitted.
8. N ewspapers, cat litter, scoop and plastic trash bags for handling waste.
South Fort Myers High School 14020 Plantation Rd. Ft. Myers, FL 33912
9. P ortable pet beds, a familiar blanket and lots of toys.
East Lee County High School 715 Thomas Sherwin Ave. Lehigh Acres, FL 33974
2. Proper ID collar with a leash.
6. Water and food with bowls.
Having to leave your home because a hurricane is threatening is a very difficult and stressful process. But the decision becomes even more difficult when your family includes a pet you can’t imagine leaving behind. There is limited space available for pet shelters and pre-registration is required. PET FRIENDLY HOTELS Most public shelters do not allow family pets. Service dogs may be an exception. Check your local listings for pet-friendly hotels and motels. You can also go to: www.petswelcome. com to find out about hotels that accept pets. Hotels will sometimes make exceptions for special situations such as disasters.
Got Gas?
The shelters are to be used only by people affected by mandatory evacuation orders that are unable to seek alternative shelter. No registration required. For additional information, call 239-533-7387. Martin Pre-registration required. Call 972-223-8822. Humane Society of the Treasure Coast 4100 SW Leighton Farm Rd. Palm City, FL 34990
Miami-Dade Pre-registration required. Call 3-1-1 or visit www.miamidade.gov/animals/disaster_preparedness.asp. E. Darwin Fuchs Pavilion 10900 SW 24 St. Miami, FL 33165 Dr. Michael M. Krop Senior High 1410 NE 215 St. North Miami, FL 33179 Monroe To pre-register call the Monroe County Office of Emergency Management at (305) 289-6018. Applies to Category 1 and 2 hurricanes. In case of emergency of evacuation call (800) 955-5504. Okeechobee Call ahead to determine if the shelter will suit your needs. Mims Veterinary Hospital 275 SW 32nd St. Okeechobee, FL 34974 (863) 763-9200 Okeechobee Veterinary Hospital 2949 SR 70 W Okeechobee, FL 34972 (863) 763-2523 Palm Beach Pre-register with the PBC Animal Care & Control. Call (561) 233-1266, or go to http://www.pbcgov.com/ publicsafety/animalcare/petshelter. htm West Boynton Recreation Center (gymnasium) 6000 Northtree Blvd Lake Worth, FL 33463 (561) 233-1266
For an updated list of gas stations with generators in your area, go to:
Broward www.broward.org/Hurricane/Stores/Pages/Default.aspx Collier http://www.colliergov.net/Index.aspx?page=1916 Miami-Dade http://www.miamidade.gov/oem/generator_addresses.asp Palm Beach http://www.pbcgov.com/publicsafety/emergencymanagement/resources/pdf/2010GasStations.pdf State Wide http://www.dep.state.fl.us/secretary/news/2007/gsg/files/06.20.07_HB_Compliance.pdf 6
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The kit should have a 3 to 14 days supply of the following items: THE BASICS: q Drinking water (1 gallon per person per day) q Full tank of fuel in your vehicle q Manual can opener q Nonperishable foods * q Canned meat, fish, fruit, or vegetables q Bread in moisture proof packaging q Cookies, candy or dried fruit q Canned soups & nonperishable milk q Powdered or single serve drinks q Cereal or granola bars q Packaged ketchup, mustard or mayonnaise q Peanut butter and jelly q Instant tea or coffee q Flashlight (1 per person) * q Portable battery powered lanterns q Large trash bags q Battery operated radio * q Extra batteries, including hearing aid batteries q First aid kit including aspirin, antibiotic cream q Mosquito repellent q Sunscreen (45 SPF recommended) q Waterproof matches / butane lighter q Cash * q Unscented bleach or water purification tablets (add 8 drops of bleach per gal.) q Maps of the area with landmarks on it (i.e. hospitals, shelters, etc.) q Disinfectant COOKING: q Sterno fuel q Portable camp stove or grill w/ utensils q Stove fuel, charcoal w/ lighter fluid or propane q Disposable eating utensils, plates, cups q Napkins and paper towels q Aluminum foil q Oven mitts PERSONAL SUPPLIES: q Feminine hygiene products q Toilet paper q Entertainment: books, games, toys and magazines * q Bedding: pillows, sleeping bag * q Change of clothing * q Rain ponchos and work gloves q Liquid soap q Hand sanitizer q Baby wipes MEDICAL q Prescription medicines (1 month supply and copy of prescriptions) * The emergency refill law now allows you to obtain a 30-day supply of medications when an emergency is declared. q Your complete list of prescription drugs, with name, strength, and prescription number, plus pharmacy name, address and phone number.
C ooler for medications C ooling vest B attery operated fan (large) E xtra eyeglasses or contact lenses E xtra wheelchair batteries (fully charged) A ll assistive devices (wheelchair/scooter, cane, walker, etc.) labeled with your name and contact information q I f applicable, the address and telephone number of your Tysabri infusion center as well as your next appointment date. q q q q q q
BEFORE THE STORM RESEARCH
Hurricane Preparedness Check List
IMPORTANT DOCUMENTS*: (keep in waterproof container) q I nsurance documents including Medical insurance and Medicare cards q A list of all your important contacts (family, doctors, insurance agents) q Banking information q Leases / mortgage q Proof of occupancy (such as utility bill) * q Photo inventory of your personal belongings * q Y our list of contacts. Include names and phone numbers of your health-care providers, family members, support network members q Names and model numbers of any assistive devices q P hone numbers of key services, including your local emergency management agency; ambulance service; telephone and utility repair; electrician; plumber; building manager, superintendent, or landlord; and your Society chapter q L ist allergies and sensitivities; communicative or cognitive difficulties BABIES: q D isposable diapers * q F ormula, food and medication * q B ottles and feeding utensils PET SUPPLIES: q D ry and/or canned food q I D tags and collars q P roof of recent immunizations q W ater (1/2 gallon per day) q Litter box and supplies q C arrying container OTHER NECESSITIES: q T ool box q A BC rated fire extinguisher q M asking tape or duct tape q O utdoor extension cords q S pray paint q Standard single line phone q Local phone book q Roofing tarps or plastic sheeting q Rope or heavy cord (100 ft.) * If you plan to evacuate to a Red Cross Evacuation Center, please be sure to take these items. TOLL FREE NUMBER 1 800 344 4867
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IMPORTANT PHONE NUMBERS AND ADDITIONAL WEBSITES FOR INFORMATION: Emergency 911 My Pharmacy Number ______________________________________________ My Doctor’s Number __________________________________________________ Family Member Outside of Florida __________________________________________________ __________________________________________________ __________________________________________________ Army Corps of Engineers (904) 232-1628, www.usace.army.mil Blue Roof Program (800) ROOF BLU Florida Attorney General’s Price Gouging Hotline (866)-966-7226, www.myfloridalegal.com Florida Department of Financial Services Insurance Claim Hotline (800) 22 STORM, (800) 227-8676 EPA’s State Drinking Water Hotline (800) 426-4791 Federal Emergency Management-FEMA (800) 621-3362, (800) 462-7585 TTY, www.fema.org Florida Division of Emergency Mgt. (850) 413-9969, (800) 226-4329 TTD/TTY, (800) 342-3557 24-hour hotline, www.floridadisaster.org National Council on Disability (202) 272-2004, (202) 272-2074 TTY, www.ncd.gov National Flood Insurance Program (800) 638-6620, (800) 447-9487 TTY, www.fema.gov/business/nfip or www.floodsmart.gov National Hurricane Center (305) 229-4550, www.nhc.noaa.gov National Multiple Sclerosis Society South Florida Chapter (954) 731-4224 or 1 800 FIGHT MS (344-4867) www.nmssfls.org (South Florida Chapter) www.nationalmssociety.org (Nationwide) South Florida Water Management (800) 432-2045, www.sfwmd.gov UTILITIES AT&T (888) 757-6500, (800) 251-5325 TTY, www.att.com Century Link (800) 339-1811, www.centurylink.com Comcast (800) 266-2278, www.comcast.com Direct TV (800) 494-4388, (800) 779-4388 TTY, www.directv.com Dish Network (888) 284-7116, www.dishnetwork.com Florida City Gas (888) 352-5325, www.floridacitygas.com FPL (800) 468-8243, (800) 251-5325 TTY, www.fpl.com TECO/Peoples Gas (877) 832-6747, (813) 228-4613 TTY www.peoplesgas.com ADDITIONAL WEBSITES: The Access Board www.access-board.gov Advocacy Center for Persons with Disabilities www.advocacycenter.org Agency for Persons with Disabilities http://apd.myflorida.com Agency for Workforce Innovation Unemployment Claims Emergency Website http://www.awiemergency.com/ or (800) 204-2418 8
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American Association for People with Disabilities www.aapd.com American Foundation for the Blind www.afb.org American Red Cross (866) GET-INFO, (866) 438-4636, www.redcross.org Federal Government Information for people with Disabilities www.disabilityinfo.gov Florida Relay Service (800) 955-8770, (800) 955-8771 TTY, www.ftri.org/floridarelay National Organization on Disability www.nod.org/emergency Occupational Safety and Health Administration www.osha.gov Weather Channel www.weather.com MS RESOURCES EMERGENCY SUPPLIES: Evacuation Chairs – devices to take a person with limited mobility safely down stairs Evac+Chair www.evac-chair.com Evacu-Trac www.evacutrac.com AOK Rescue Chairs www.rescuechair.com Scalamobil portable stair climber www.frankmobility.com/scalamobil.php LifeSlider – a toboggan-like device www.lifeslider.com Baronmead Wheelchair Carrier www.baronmead.com Fire-resistant blankets www.disasternecessities.com, www.saveguard.com Personal Alert Systems www.lifefone.com, www.monitoringcare.com, www.americanmedicalarms.com Medical ID Bracelets – Most Most of these are simple jewelry that can be engraved with a warning (“allergic to penicillin”, for example). Others are comprehensive systems that involve membership and a medical database. www.medicalalert.org, www.medicalmedallion.com, www.medids.com/, www.americanmedical-id.com, www.911med411.com INFORMATION ON MS DRUG THERAPIES Avonex & Tysabri (800) 456-2255, www.avonex.com, www.tysabri.com Betaseron (800) 788-1467, www.betaseron.com Copaxone (800) 887-8100, www.sharedsolutions.com GILENYA (888) 669-6682, www.gilenya.com Novantrone (800) 572-1932, www.novantrone.com Rebif (877) 447-3243, www.rebiff.com BROWARD COUNTY Office of Emergency Management (954) 831-3900, www.broward.org/emergency Sheriff’s Office (non-emergency) (954) 765-4321, www.sheriff.org American Red Cross (954) 797-3800, www.browardredcross.org Animal Care and Control (954) 359-1313, www.broward.org/animal Code Enforcement/Consumer Affairs (954) 765-4400, www.broward.org/permittingandlicensing Health Department (954) 467-4700, www.browardchd.org Pet Shelter (954) 989-3977, www.humanebroward.com
UTILITIES: Advanced Cable Communications (954) 753- 0100, http://www.advancedcable.net/ AT&T (888) 757-6500 Comcast (954) 252-1937 FPL (954) 797-5000 Broward Water & Wastewater Services (954) 831-3250, www.broward.org/waterservices COLLIER COUNTY Office of Emergency Management (239) 252-3600, www.colliergov.net/index.aspx?page=101 Sheriff’s Office (non-emergency) (239) 252-9300, www.colliersheriff.org American Red Cross (239) 596-6868, www.colliercountyredcross.org Animal Care and Control (239) 252-7387, www.colliergov.net/Index.aspx?page=100 Code Enforcement (239) 252-2440, www.colliergov.net/Index.aspx?page=33 Health Department (239) 252-8200 (Naples), (239) 252-7300 (Immokalee), www.collierhealthdept.org Pet Shelter (239) 252-7387, www.colliergov.net/Index.aspx?page=1877 Shelter Registration (239) 252-3600, www.colliergov.net/Index.aspx?page=1844 Salvation Army (239) 775-9447, www.salvationarmynaples.org Transit (239) 252-7272, www.colliergov.net/Index.aspx?page=89 United Way (239) 261-7112, www.unitedwayofcolliercounty.org UTILITIES: Century Link (800) 339-1811 Comcast (239) 793-3577 FPL (800) 468-8243 Lee County Electric (800) 599-2356 Collier County Water Department (239) 252-6245, www.colliergov.net/Index.aspx?page=127 GLADES Office of Emergency Management (863) 946-6020, www.myglades.com Sheriff’s Office (non-emergency) (863) 946-1600, www.gladessheriff.org American Red Cross (863) 763-2488, www.redcross-pbc.org Animal Care and Control (863) 946-0001 Code Enforcement (863) 946-0533, www.myglades.com Health Department (863) 946-0707 Shelter Registration (863) 946-6020, www.myglades.com Salvation Army (239) 278-1551, www.salvationarmyleecounty.org Transit (800) 741-1570, www.goodwheels.org UTILITIES: Century Link (800) 339-1811 Comcast (800) 266-2278 Glades Electric Co-op (800) 226-4024 Glades Utility Service (863) 465-0190
HENDRY Office of Emergency Management (863) 675-5255, (LaBelle), (863) 983-1594 (Clewiston), www.hendryfla.net/EM Sheriff’s Office (non-emergency) (863) 674-5600, (LaBelle), (863) 805-5000 (Clewiston), www.hendrysheriff.org American Red Cross (863) 902-1220, www.redcross-pbc.org Animal Care and Control (863) 675-3381, www.hendrysheriff.org Code Enforcement (863) 675-5245 (LaBelle), (863) 983-1463 (Clewiston), www.hendryfla.net/building Health Department (863) 674-4041 (LaBelle), (863) 983-1408 (Clewiston), www.doh.state.fl.us/chdhendry Shelter Registration (863) 612-4700, www.hendryfla.net/EM Salvation Army (239) 278-1551, www.salvationarmyleecounty.org Transit (800) 741-1570, www.goodwheels.org United Way (239) 433-2000, www.unitedwaylee.org
HURRICANE SEASON 2011
Shelter Registration (954) 357-6385, www.broward.org/atrisk Salvation Army (954) 524-6991, www.salvationarmybroward.org Transit (800) 579-5432, www.broward.org/BCT United Way (954) 462-4850, www.unitedwaybroward.org
UTILITIES: Century Link (888) 723-8010 - Support, (800) 788-3600 - Repair FPL (800) 468-8243 Glades Electric Co-op (800) 226-4024 Lee County Electric Cooperative (800) 599-2356 LEE COUNTY Office of Emergency Management (239) 533-3622, www.leeeoc.com Sheriff’s Office (non-emergency) (239) 477-1000, www.sheriffleefl.org American Red Cross (239) 278-3401, www.arclcc.org Animal Care and Control (239) 533-7387, www.leelostpets.com Code Enforcement (239) 533-8895, www3.leegov.com/dcd Health Department 239) 332-9501, www.leechd.com Pet Shelter (239) 533-7387, www.leelostpets.com Shelter Registration (239) 533-3640, www.leeeoc.com Salvation Army (239) 278-1551, www.salvationarmyleecounty.org Transit (239) 533-8726, www.rideleetran.com United Way (239) 433-2000, www.unitedwaylee.org UTILITIES: Century Link (800) 339-1811 Comcast (800) 266-2278 Lee County Electric Co-op (LCEC) (239) 656-2300, (800) 599-2356, www.lcec.net Lee County Utilities (239) 936-0247, (800) 485-0214, www.lee-county.com/gov/dept/utilities MARTIN COUNTY Office of Emergency Management (772) 287-2002, www.martin.fl.us Sheriff’s Office (non-emergency) (772) 220-7000, www.sheriff.martin.fl.us American Red Cross (772) 287-2002, www.redcross-pbc.org Animal Care and Control (772) 463-3211, www.sheriff.martin.fl.us/DO_animal.html Code Enforcement (772) 320-3077, www.martin.fl.us Health Department (772) 221-4000 (Stuart), (772) 597-3687 (Indiantown), www.martincountyhealth.com TOLL FREE NUMBER 1 800 344 4867
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MARTIN COUNTY (CONTINUED) Pet Shelter (772) 223-8822, www.hstc1.org Shelter Registration (772) 287-1652, www.martincountyhealth.com Salvation Army (772) 288-1471, www.salvationarmystuart.org Transit (772) 283-1814, www.councilonagingmartin.org United Way (772) 283-4800, www.unitedwaymartincounty.org UTILITIES: AT&T (888) 757-6500 FPL (800) 468-8243 Indiantown Water (772) 597-2121 Sailfish Point Utilities (772) 225-1615 Martin County Utilities (772) 221-1434, www.martin.fl.us MIAMI-DADE COUNTY Office of Emergency Management (305) 468-5400, www.miamidade.gov/oem Sheriff’s Office (non-emergency) (305) 476-5423, www.miamidade.gov/MDPD American Red Cross (305) 681-1066 (N. Dade), (305) 644-1200 (Miami), (305) 248-2024 (S. Dade), www.miamiredcross.org Animal Care and Control (305) 884-1101, www.miamidade.gov/animals Code Enforcement (786) 315-2000, www.miamidade.gov/building Health Department (305) 324-2400, www.dadehealth.org Pet Shelter 3-1-1, www.miamidade.gov/animals Shelter Registration (305) 513-7700, www.miamidade.gov/oem Salvation Army (305) 637-6700, www.salvationarmymiami.org Transit (786) 469-5000, www.co.miami-dade.fl.us/transit United Way (305) 860-3000, www.unitedwaymiami.org UTILITIES: AT&T (888) 757-6500, (305) 780-2273 TDD Comcast (800) 266-2278 FPL (800) 468-8243, (800) 251-5325 TTY TECO/People Gas (877) 832-6747, (813) 228-4613 TTY M-D Water and Sewer Department (305) 274-9272, www.miamidade.gov/wasd MONROE COUNTY Office of Emergency Management (305) 289-6018, www.monroecounty-fl.gov/index.aspx?NID=92 Sheriff’s Office (non-emergency) (305) 292-7000, www.keysso.net American Red Cross (305) 296-4033, www.miamiredcross.org Animal Care and Control (305) 294-4857 (Key West), (305) 743-4800 (Marathon), (305) 451-0088 (Key Largo), www.monroecounty-fl.gov/index.aspx?NID=96 Code Enforcement (305) 289-2810, www.monroecounty-fl.gov/index.aspx?NID=167 Health Department (305) 239-7500, www.keyshealth.com Pet Shelter (305) 289-6018, www.monroecounty-fl.gov/index.aspx?NID=92 Shelter Registration (305) 292-4591, www.monroecounty-fl.gov/index.aspx?NID=148 Salvation Army (305) 294-5611, www.salvationarmykeywest.org 10
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Transit (305) 292-4424, www.monroecounty-fl.gov/index.aspx?NID=142 United Way (305) 735-1929, www.keysunitedway.org UTILITIES: AT&T (888) 757-6500 Comcast (800) 266-2278 Florida Keys Aqueduct Authority (305) 295-3522, www.fkaa.com Florida Keys Electric Co-op (305) 852-2431, (800) 858-8845, www.fkec.com Keys Energy Services (305) 295-1000, Power Outages (305) 295-1010, www.keysenergy.com OKEECHOBEE COUNTY Office of Emergency Management (863) 763-3212, www.co.okeechobee.fl.us/node/154 Sheriff’s Office (non-emergency) (863) 763-3117, www.okeesheriff.org American Red Cross (863) 763-2488, www.redcross-pbc.org Animal Care and Control (863) 357-3225, www.co.okeechobee.fl.us Code Enforcement (863) 763-6441, www.co.okeechobee.fl.us/code Health Department (863) 462-5819, www.doh.state.fl.us/chdokeechobee Pet Shelter (863) 763-9200 (Mims Vet Hospital) (863) 763-2523, (Okeechobee Vet Hospital) Shelter Registration (863) 763-5819, www.okeechobeeeoc.com UTILITIES: Century Link (800) 339-1811 Comcast (800) 266-2278 Glades Electric Co-op (800) 226-4023, (863) 467-5111, www.gladesec.com Okeechobee Utility Authority (863) 763-9460, www.co.okeechobee.fl.us/node/139 PALM BEACH COUNTY Office of Emergency Management (561) 712-6400, www.pbcgob.com/publicsafety Sheriff’s Office (non-emergency) (561) 688-3000, www.pbso.org American Red Cross (561) 833-7711, www.redcross-pbc.org Animal Care and Control (561) 233-1200, www.co.palm-beach.fl.us/publicsafety Code Enforcement (561) 712-6600 (WPB), (888) 852-7362 (Boca/Delray), www.pbcgov.com/publicsafety Health Department (561) 840-4500, www.pbchd.org Pet Shelter (561) 233-1266, www.pbcgov.com/publicsafety Shelter Registration (561) 712-6400, www.pbcgov.com/publicsafety Salvation Army (561) 686-3530, www.salvationarmypalmbeachcounty.org Transit (561) 841-4200, www.co.palm-beach.fl.us/palmtran/ United Way (561) 375-6600, www.unitedwaypbc.org UTILITIES: AT&T (888) 757-6500 Comcast (800) 568-1212 FPL (800) 468-8243 PBC Water Utilities (561) 740-4600 (WPB), (561) 278-5135 (Boca/Delray), www.pbcgov.com/waterutilities
• T urn off circuit breakers before the power goes. Leave one circuit breaker on with a lamp so you will know when power is restored. • U se flashlights, not candles or kerosene lamps, during a storm. • S tay in your safe room even if you hear breaking glass. Do not risk exposure to hurricane winds.
DURING THE STORM RESEARCH
DURING THE STORM
• Place animals in carriers.
• Remain calm.
• I f your house starts to break apart, cover yourself with a mattress. If your safe room is a bathroom with a bathtub, get in the tub under a mattress.
• C ontinue to watch local news or listen to the radio for weather coverage and updates.
• U se the phone only for urgent calls. Don’t use the phone if you hear thunder.
• G o indoors and stay indoors until the storm has passed. Some people think the storm has passed, but it is actually just the eye of the storm.
• I f you are in a very tall building, avoid the top floors, as wind speeds are stronger the higher you go. Go to a safe room and use extreme caution.
S
AFTER THE STORM
afety is never more important than after a storm. Statistics show that more injuries occur immediately following a hurricane than during the storm itself. Residents must be extremely cautious when venturing outdoors and be on the lookout for downed power lines and debris. Driving is often highly hazardous due to nonworking traffic signals and downed signs. Crews will be out on the streets to begin the clean up as soon as it is safe. But residents are asked to stay off the streets as much as possible for their own safety and to allow work crews to work as efficiently as possible. It’s also important to remember that improperly installed generators are dangerous - see the Generator Safety article for information on proper use. After a disaster, you may need to ask for help doing things you usually would have done independently. Understandably, this may make you feel especially vulnerable. You may need help putting your home back in order, filling out forms, or providing documentation and information to
disaster relief agencies. This can add to the stress you may feel. A personal support network that knows your needs may anticipate some of them and make your recovery easier and less stressful. GENERATOR SAFETY In the event of power outages during, and in the days following a major storm generators can make life much more comfortable. Along with the increase in generator sales, there are elevated generatorrelated emergencies such as Carbon Monoxide (CO) poisoning, structure fires from generator explosions, burns and other injuries. Most of these emergencies are preventable. When operating a generator, keep the following in mind: • All gas-powered engines emit Carbon Monoxide, a colorless, odorless gas that can build up to fatally toxic levels in the environment. Generators must only be operated in a well-ventilated area outside of
South Florida grocery stores have been preparing for hurricane season with back-up generators to get them back to business as usual during power outages.
inhabited structures and should never be placed anywhere near windows, doors, vents or other openings. • If you’re going to spend hundreds or even thousands of dollars on a generator, pitch in the extra twenty or thirty bucks for a CO detector. That’s a small cost for the life safety benefit. • Never operate a generator on the balcony of a multi-unit structure. The boundaries of most balconies force you to place the generator too close to your own living areas as well as those of your neighbors. • Never attempt to refuel a generator while it is running or still hot. Turn it off and allow it to cool before adding fuel. Take extreme care not to spill fuel onto the generator or the surrounding area.
CONTINUED ON P. 12 TOLL FREE NUMBER 1 800 344 4867
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Collier and Lee Counties CONTINUED FROM P. 11 • R ead your generator’s manual very carefully. Follow all directions and pay close attention to the electrical load rating. Never overload the generator. • Never attempt to connect a portable generator to the main electrical panel in your home. Not only is this very dangerous for occupants, it is also fatally dangerous for electrical workers who are trying to restore power.
National Multiple Sclerosis Society South Florida Chapter 3201 West Commercial Blvd. Suite 127 Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33309
PAID
FT LAUD FL PERMIT 4435
The “No Person Left Behind” program has been established to provide the local Emergency Operations Centers (EOC), Police and Fire Rescue with the numbers, types, needs and locations of people with disabilities prior to, during and after a hurricane or disaster. This program has been created under HIPPA guidelines and information is strictly confidential. A phone call notification system allows the registered person to be advised of an impending hurricane and will receive a call after to check on the individual’s status. This pro-
gram does not supersede the local EOC’s “Special Needs Programs,” but rather enhances it when used in conjunction. If you require special needs at a shelter, please also register with your local EOC. To access the registration form, go to www.nopersonleftbehind.org, fill it out online and submit. It’s as easy as that. The website also provides a wealth of information and resources for people with disabilities.
Broward County
Vulnerable Population Registry The Vulnerable Population Registry is a program that allows people who would be at risk following a hurricane to register in advance so that emergency workers may plan a better response during a recovery effort. The Registry is a joint partnership between all municipalities and Broward County. Each city may use the Vulnerable Population Registry list in a different way, based on their city’s recovery effort. The easiest way to register is online at www.broward.org/atrisk. Registration does not guarantee that you will be provided assistance. If you do not have access to a computer, you can also register by calling the Broward County Call Center at 954-831-4000 (TTY 954-831-3940).
2011 MS Resource Hurricane Guide
NON-PROFIT US POSTAGE
TIPS FOR STORING GENERATORS • Store in a dry, well-ventilated area with the fuel tank empty. • Clean thoroughly before storing. Remove traces of oil, dirt and other foreign matter. • D o not store near fuel supplies. • Do not store near appliances such as water heaters or pumps, especially if they are gas-powered. • When you pull your generator out after any storage period, remember to inspect it carefully for broken or missing parts.
No Person Left Behind