County officials will open shelters on a tiered basis as needed, and not all shelters will be open at the same time.
The public MUST monitor THIS PAGE on the County website, the County’s social media platforms and local media outlets for what shelter locations are open or if shelters are at capacity.
Risk shelters are typically meant to house people for 12-72 hours until the storm or threat passes. Because these shelters must open quickly, it is not possible to provide comfort items to evacuees (such as cots and blankets). Bring your family’s disaster survival kit to ensure proper provisions.
Highlands County has three types of shelters
1. Public risk shelters
What to expect at public shelters:
Open to all individuals in Highlands County.
Shelters do not provide food, beverages, cots or chairs.
When you arrive, check in with the shelter manager.
If you leave the shelter, check out with the shelter manager.
Bring your family’s disaster supplies.
Expect it to be loud.
Weapons and alcohol ARE NOT ALLOWED.
PRIMARY SHELTERS
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Sports Complex
207 E. State St., Avon Park
Alan Jay Arena
781 Magnolia Ave., Sebring
Lake Placid High School
202 Green Dragon Drive, Lake Placid
2. Special Needs shelter
For electric dependent individuals or persons whose medicines/devices require refrigeration/electric power and their caregivers.
To learn more and to register, CLICK HERE
3. Pet-friendly shelter
Dogs and cats are kept in a separate location from owners, in a crate or carrier.
The owner must be staying in the shelter to feed and walk their pet.
Pre-registration is required.
To learn more and to register, CLICK HERE