Emergency Information
Emergencies can happen without warning. This section provides information to help you stay safe during hurricanes, other disasters, and public health emergencies. It also explains when and how to call 911.
Hurricane Safety
Before a Hurricane
South Florida counties have emergency plans for natural disasters. If a hurricane is expected, local governments may open shelters, provide transportation, or designate pickup locations.
List of emergency management websites for all Florida counties
If You Decide Not to Go to a Shelter
Some people choose not to use emergency shelters for personal reasons. If you remain outdoors, your risk of serious injury or death increases significantly.
To reduce your risk:
- Stay away from beaches, rivers, and flood-prone areas.
- Never stay under bridges or highway overpasses during high winds.
- Move away from trees, construction sites, and power lines.
Other Emergencies
Extreme Heat
South Florida heat can be dangerous.
Watch for:
- dizziness
- confusion
- headache
- rapid heartbeat
Move to air conditioning if possible, drink water, and seek medical attention if symptoms worsen.
Severe Thunderstorms
If lightning is nearby:
- Go inside a building if possible.
- Stay indoors for at least 30 minutes after the last sound of thunder before returning outside.
If you’re unable to go inside a safe shelter:
- Avoid standing underneath trees.
- Stay away from ponds, lakes, and and other bodies of water.
- Stay away from objects that conduct electricity, such as metal fences and utility poles.
Public Health Emergencies
During outbreaks of infectious diseases:
- Follow local public health guidance.
- Wash hands whenever possible.
- Wear a mask if recommended.
- Stay away from others if you are sick.
- Visit a clinic if you have difficulty breathing, a high fever, or worsening symptoms.
For a list of clinics and hospital services, refer to our homeless resources page.
When Should You Call 911?
911 should be used for emergencies where someone needs immediate police, fire, or emergency medical assistance.
Call 911 immediately if you are:
- in a life-threatening medical emergency, including: unconsciousness, severe injuries, heavy bleeding, extreme drug overdose, severe allergic reaction
- witnessing a serious crime in progress
- facing an immediate threat to life or safety
If you are unsure whether a situation is life-threatening, it is appropriate to call 911 and explain what is happening.
When 911 May Not Be the Best Option
Some situations can often be handled by other services, such as:
- finding food
- finding shelter
- transportation assistance
- non-urgent medical appointments
- social services
See our homeless resources page for a list of services in Florida.
Tips for Calling 911
When you call:
- Stay as calm as you can.
- Tell the dispatcher your exact location or nearby landmarks.
- Explain what happened.
- Answer the dispatcher’s questions.
- Stay on the line unless instructed to hang up.
- Follow any instructions you receive.
If you can’t speak safely, texting 911 is an option. Text messaging to 911 is active in all Florida counties. Only text to 911 if you can’t make a voice call.