evacuation route signPrepare Ahead

We may not be able to control weather conditions, but with only a little bit of planning, we can take all possible precautions to ensure our personal safety and protect our homes from severe damage.

Stay Connected

Staying connected to important information can help you, your family, and your business survive the storm.

Turn Around Don’t Drown

Flooding can be dangerous. Even though it appears to be moving slowly, a flood 6′ deep moving at 3 ft./second can knock people off their feet. It takes just 12 inches of rushing water to carry away a small car, while 2 feet of rushing water can carry away most vehicles. It is NEVER safe to drive or walk into flood waters. . The message is clear: do not attempt to walk or drive in flood conditions.

Evacuation Information

evacuation route signShould a tropical event threaten Pinellas County, an evacuation order may be issued. Everyone in Redington Shores is in an evacuation zone A. Follow evacuation instructions and evacuation routes to find high ground.

Current evacuation status, closest shelters, special needs shelters, and accommodations can be found here.

Click here to register for a Pet-Friendly Public Shelter

Remember, evacuation orders are issued to protect you. It is illegal to stay in a home under a mandatory evacuation order. Under Florida Statute 252.38, the local authority has the ability to take necessary steps to provide for the health and safety of people and property. Chapter 252.50 sets refusal to follow an evacuation order as a second-degree misdemeanor.

Be Alert For Gas Leaks

Use a flashlight to inspect for damage. Don’t smoke or use candles, lanterns, or open flames unless you know the gas has been turned off and the area has been ventilated. Before evacuating, make sure the gas has been turned off.

What to do Before, During, and After an impending storm

Before

Before a storm, there are severe weather watches and warnings. A watch lets you know that weather conditions are expected. It literally means “be on guard!” A warning requires immediate action. This means a weather hazard is imminent – it is either occurring (a tornado has been spotted, for example) – or it is about to occur at any moment. During a weather warning, it is important to take action.

Watch

  • Tune in to your local news (cable TV, Internet, radio, etc) in order to receive updated information.
  • Stay connected – Sign-up for Alert Pinellas to receive emergency alerts.
  • Take photos or video of your home’s interior and your personal property. Click here for more information
  • Get your Pinellas County Sheriff’s Emergency Re-entry Pass now at town hall to ensure that you can return to your home after an evacuation.
  • Fill up your automobile gas tank and make sure your prescriptions are filled. Have an Electric Vehicle?
  • Make plans now to relocate or store boats and other watercraft.
  • Trim your trees and remove any yard debris to help keep storm drains clear during severe weather event.
  • You are in an evacuation Zone A.  Look up shelter locations now.
  • GET A PLAN! Make sure that you have an emergency plan for you, your loved ones, and your pets. Visit FloridaDisaster.org to make yours.
  • Download the Official All-hazard Guide for Pinellas County, Surviving the Storm.
  • If you have a pet, visit Pinellas County’s Pet Preparedness page or call (727) 582-2150 to register for a Pet-Friendly Public Shelter.
  • Residents of all ages with special needs, those without transportation and the elderly should register. If you are registered and need transportation to a shelter, your local fire department will contact you before an evacuation. You can also complete this form and mail to Pinellas County Emergency Management (address located at the bottom of the form). For more information, visit the Pinellas County Special Needs page.

Warning

  • Follow your evacuation orders.
  • Tune in to your local news (cable TV, Internet, radio, etc) in order to receive updated information.
  • Stay connected – Sign-up for Alert Pinellas to receive emergency alerts.
  • Pack your emergency “Go Bag”
  • Secure your outdoor property (lawn furniture, grills, trash cans, etc) or bring it inside.
  • Get your sandbags at Town Hall.
  • Clear any debris from storm drains in your neighborhood.
  • You are in an evacuation Zone A.  Follow evacuation instructions.
  • Let friends and family know your evacuation plans.
  • You are in an evacuation Zone A.  If you have a pet, prepare travel package that includes pet food and pet medications.

During

  • Tune in to your local news (cable TV, Internet, radio, etc) in order to receive updated information on the status of  the storm.
  • Stay connected – Sign-up for Alert Pinellas to receive emergency alerts.
  • Turn around and don’t drown. (See video above)

After

  • Stay tuned to local news for updates on flooded areas, road closures, and re-entry points.
  • File your flood insurance claim now. Click here for more information.
  • Follow re-entry orders and avoid flooded areas.
  • Use caution when returning home.  Click here for a list of things you should be careful for.
  • If your home or business has flooded, remove wet contents immediately to prevent mold. Wet carpeting, furniture, bedding and other items holding moisture can develop mold within 24 to 48 hours. Click here for more information.
  • Photograph and list all damaged or lost items including their age and value where possible. Take photos of water in the house. Adjusters need evidence of the damage to prepare your estimate.
  • Build back stronger and safer.  Click here to learn how.
  • Get building permits at Town Hall.
  • Look out for price gouging. It is illegal for anyone to sell necessary goods or services at higher than normal prices during a state of emergency. Visit https://pinellas.gov/consumer-tips-price-gouging for more information.
  • Keep pets out of flooded areas and standing water.

Also see: PDF: Storm Damage – What To Do