Where Should You Evacuate in Southwest Florida Before a Hurricane? A Guide for Seniors, Families, and Pet Owners

by Gary Benjamin

Living in beautiful southwest Florida means enjoying sunshine, beaches, and vibrant communities—but it also means being prepared for hurricane season. If you call Sarasota, Charlotte, or Manatee County home, knowing where to go (and what to do if you can’t leave) is crucial, especially for seniors, families, and pet owners.

Evacuating: Where Should You Go?

When local officials issue an evacuation order, your safest option is to head inland, away from the coast and flood-prone areas. Here are some smart choices:

Stay with Friends or Family: If you have loved ones in central or northern Florida—or even out of state—reach out early to make arrangements. This is often the most comfortable and supportive option, especially for seniors and families with children or pets.
Hotels & Motels: Book early in cities like Orlando, Gainesville, or Tallahassee. Many hotels relax their pet policies during hurricanes, but always call ahead to confirm.
Public Shelters Outside the Evacuation Zone: County emergency management websites will list which shelters are open and their locations. These are a last resort but are equipped to help you stay safe.

Special Considerations

Seniors: If you have medical needs, look for special needs shelters. Register in advance with your county’s emergency management office to ensure your spot and any required assistance.
Families: Bring comfort items for kids, like favorite snacks, games, or stuffed animals, to ease the stress of evacuation.
Pet Owners: Not all shelters accept pets. Identify pet-friendly shelters in advance, and pack a kit with food, water, medications, and comfort items for your furry friends.

If You Can’t Evacuate: Local Shelters

If leaving isn’t possible, your county provides shelters designed to keep you safe. Here are some key locations:

Sarasota County:
- Booker High School – 3201 N Orange Ave, Sarasota, FL 34234 (pet-friendly)
- Riverview High School – 1 Ram Way, Sarasota, FL 34231
Charlotte County:
- Punta Gorda Middle School – 1001 Education Ave, Punta Gorda, FL 33950
- Harold Avenue Regional Park Recreation Center – 23400 Harold Ave, Port Charlotte, FL 33980 (pet-friendly)
Manatee County:
- Braden River High School – 6545 SR 70 East, Bradenton, FL 34203 (pet-friendly)
- Mills Elementary School – 7200 69th St E, Palmetto, FL 34221

Always check your county’s emergency management website or call ahead, as shelter locations can change based on the storm’s path and capacity.

What to Bring to a Shelter

Personal identification and important documents
Medications and medical supplies
Comfort items (blankets, pillows, snacks, books)
Pet supplies if bringing animals

Stay Informed, Stay Safe

Sign up for local emergency alerts and keep a battery-powered radio handy. Preparation and early action are your best tools for weathering any storm.

For more information and up-to-date shelter openings, visit your county’s emergency management website:

Stay safe, look out for each other, and remember: you’re not alone in this. 💙