(1)  It is the expectation of the special needs shelter that a caregiver* accompany and remain with the consumer throughout the stay.

(2)  The following is a suggested list of what consumers need to bring to the special needs shelter during an evacuation; the consumer should check with the assigned shelter to confirm the necessary items and/or those items which may not be accommodated:

• Identification and current address
• A copy of the consumer’s plan of care, if applicable
• Medication listing including directions for the dose, frequency, route, time of day and any special considerations for administration; equipment and supplies list including the phone, beeper and emergency numbers for the consumer’s physician, pharmacy and, if applicable, oxygen supplier; necessary medical equipment and supplies; Do Not Resuscitate Order (DNRO), if applicable
• Bed sheets, blankets, pillow, folding lawn chair, air mattress
• Prescription and non-prescription medications needed for at least 5 to 7 days; oxygen for 5 to 7 days, if needed and shelter space allows
• Special diet items, non-perishable food for 5 to 7 days and 1 gallon of water per person per day
• Glasses, hearing aids and batteries, prosthetics and any other assistive devices
• Personal hygiene items for 5 to 7 days (including adult diapers, colostomy supplies, etc.)
• Extra clothing for 5 to 7 days
• Flashlight and batteries
• Self-entertainment and recreation items such as books, magazines, quiet games
• Labeled shoe box or other small closed container to hold the majority of the smaller items listed above to facilitate storage and ease of use

(3)  All persons using the special needs shelters need to know the following:

• Space allotted for the consumer includes space for the caregiver. A special needs shelter can accommodate only one caregiver at a time; any other family members, friends, etc. should go to a regular shelter.
• The caregiver must provide his or her own bedding.
• Caregivers who regularly assist the consumer in the home are expected to continue to provide the same care in the shelter.
• Service dogs are allowed in the shelter. Check with the local Emergency Management office to see if other pets are permitted.
• Bring food items as listed above. It is possible only sparse meals will be provided.
• Smoking is not allowed in the shelter.

* Caregivers may be relatives, household members, guardians, friends, neighbors, employees or volunteers.