Emergency Shelters

Evacuation Policy

Polk County does not have a mandatory evacuation policy. It is the policy of Polk County’s Emergency Management to recommend in-place shelter as the primary option during a disaster. For those unable to remain in place, especially those in mobile homes, the remaining choices should be considered in order of preference. Whichever of the following options is selected, it is advised that a seven-day survival kit be assembled and ready, a course of action be planned, and that the plans be executed as soon as practicable before the disaster hits. The recommended options are:

• In-place Shelter: Plan to remain in your residence during the emergency, if possible.
• Evacuate to friend’s or relative’s residence: If forced to evacuate, it is less traumatic for all concerned to be sheltered with familiar people, in more comfortable surroundings.
• Evacuate the area: Other people leaving coastal counties in the projected path of the storm will also be on the road. Leave at least 48-72 hours before the storm is expected to strike.
• Evacuate to the hotel/motel: Make arrangements early as rooms will fill quickly with other evacuees.
• Evacuate to a public shelter: Please see the county’s public shelter policy. To obtain a Polk County Public Shelter Map, visit a Publix Super Market store near you. This can help with finding storm and special shelters.