Brevard County Emergency Management Evacuation

When an Atlantic-approaching hurricane threatens Brevard County, a mandatory evacuation will be called for Zone A, which includes the barrier islands, Merritt Island and some mainland low-lying areas.  In addition, those who live in mobile or manufactured homes, or in low-lying or flood-prone areas are also vulnerable and should evacuate, whether on the mainland or the barrier islands. Check to see if you are in a low-lying area. Use the search bar to add your address on the Flood Zone Map.   

Should you choose to evacuate during an emergency, please follow the guidelines below:

• Know your primary and alternate evacuation routes; choose several destinations in different directions so you have options in an emergency.
• Evacuate early.
• Travel tens of miles, not hundreds of miles, and shelter locally.
• Choose a sturdy home or hotel outside of the evacuation zone, or a public shelter

Evacuation Route and Zone Maps - Know Your Zone

Hurricane shelters are not announced until they are opened but you can always be prepared by knowing where to find that information when it becomes available. Shelter openings will be announced through local television, radio stations, social media, and the Brevard County Emergency Management Website. If you have specific health and/or medical conditions, there are special needs shelters available to you. Preregistration is required to get approved for one of these shelters. You can register online at Brevardfl.gov or by calling (321) 637-6670.

Residents who do not plan to stay in public shelters are encouraged to stay with family or friends on the mainland, and to evacuate tens of miles rather than hundreds of miles, as traffic on highways and interstates is likely to be heavier. For more shelter and evacuation information call the Community Information Hotline at 2-1-1 or visit Brevard County Emergency Management Website.

Whether you plan on evacuating or going to a shelter, you will need to bring your own supplies. Here are some items to make sure to include:

• ALL REQUIRED MEDICATIONS AND MEDICAL SUPPORT EQUIPMENT
  • Wheelchair/ walker, oxygen, dressings, feeding and suction equipment, diapers, etc.
  • Any specific medication or care instructions (2-week supply)
  • Name and phone number of physician/home health care agency/ hospital where you receive care
• DIETARY NEEDS
  • If you are on a special diet, you need to bring a 3-day supply of nonperishable food, per person.
• FOOD AND WATER/ LIQUIDS
  • Snacks, juice, sports drinks, water, fruits, crackers (3-day supply)
• SLEEPING GEAR
  • Bring your own pillows, sheets, blankets, portable cot or air mattress, chaise lounge, folding chairs, or sleeping bags for each person. Evacuation shelters tend to be cold so bring a blanket or sweater to keep warm. COTS OR BEDS ARE NOT PROVIDED AT THE SHELTER.
• IMPORTANT PAPERS
  • Wills, deeds, licenses, insurance policies, home inventory, doctor’s orders, Do Not Resuscitate, Living Will, etc.
• IDENTIFICATION
  • ID with photo and current address, and medical identification card
• CASH
  • Check cashing/credit card services may not be available for several days after the storm. BUT: don’t bring too much! There will be no place to secure money or valuables at the evacuation shelter.
• COMFORT ITEMS
  • Small games, cards, books, magazines, etc.
• PERSONAL HYGIENE ITEMS
  • Toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, towels, brush/comb, dentures, glasses, eye drops, diapers, etc.
• EXTRA CLOTHING
  • A 3-day supply of comfortable clothing with extra sets of underwear and socks