Hurricane season runs from June 1 to Nov. 30. No one can predict the future, but each of us can take steps to prepare for the unknown. Taking action now will give you peace of mind – and may save you recovery time, energy, and money when disaster strikes. Here are 5 low-or no-cost steps to prepare yourself, your family, your business, and your community for disaster.
1. Identify your support network and key emergency contacts.
Add their numbers to your mobile device (smartphone or tablet) – categorized as an emergency contact – and make sure they have yours.
2. Get connected.
Make sure your phone is enabled to get local alerts and warnings. When emergencies strike, public safety officials use these systems to alert you.
3. Assess your needs.
This includes the needs of your family and friends. Take action to meet those needs now. Add your medical information to your phone (this article tells you how). Build an emergency essentials kit for your home and a “go bag” for your car. Keep a (charged) power bank in each.
4. Safeguard key documents and document valuables.
Use your phone to take photos of key documents and document valuables. Save the video and images in the cloud or external storage.
5. Engage your support network.
Now that you’ve taken these steps, make sure your family has done the same. Check in with your closest friends and extended family to share these tips. Discuss who will get Grandma and her oxygen tank, or make sure Dad is squared away.
DOWNLOAD THE UNITED WAY’S DISASTER PREPAREDNESS GUIDE
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When you need non-emergency help, call 2-1-1 to reach a trained specialist who can assist you.
Dial: 211 or 239-263-4211
Email: uw211help@gmail.com
Text: Your zip code to 898-211
ALERT Collier is Collier County’s mass notification system for local emergency alerts.
Sign up for real-time notifications here.
Special needs shelters are designed to meet the needs of persons who require assistance that exceeds services provided at a general population shelter.
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Click here to learn about our Disaster Case Management Program.
For more information, call 305-735-1929
Click here to visit Keyshelp.org
United Way of Collier and the Keys DOES NOT CURRENTLY PROVIDE DIRECT FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE to clients but has compiled a listing of health and human services resources for Keys residents who need assistance.
This guide is to help our community find the resources they need during times of uncertainty. Resources include childcare, food pantries, rent and utilities assistance, and medical and mental healthcare.
ALERT Monroe is Monroe County’s mass notification system for local emergency alerts.
Sign up for real-time notifications here.
Special needs shelters are designed to meet the needs of persons who require assistance that exceeds services provided at a general population shelter.
Find everything from preparing your home, to evacuation protocols, and what to do after a hurricane.
Download NowResidents should stock a disaster supply kit that lasts the household, including pets, for at least 7+ days.
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In the case of a natural disaster, you may be eligible for FEMA Individual Assistance.
Click here or call 1-800-621-3362 to see if you are eligible and to apply.
The Disaster Distress Hotline is available 24/7 and in several languages.
Call: 1-800-985-5990
Text: TalkWithUs to 66746.
For Spanish speakers, you can access the helpline at the same number or by texting Hablanos to 66746.
This helpline is staffed by trained crisis counselors.
STATE:
FEDERAL:
Sign up for local alerts and warnings, test your emergency plans, stock emergency supplies, collect critical information, and more.
What To Do
Follow guidance from local authorities, determine how to protect yourself, and more.
What To Do
Pay attention to local officials for information and special instructions, do not enter damaged buildings until they are inspected, never walk or drive on flooded roads, and more.
What To Do

UWCK Milton assistance news coverage
Watch the video below to hear a local family’s recovery story.
United Way of Collier and the Keys (UWCK), in partnership with Disaster Ready Collier County and the Collier Community Foundation, is prepared to activate a Volunteer Reception Center (VRC) following major disasters to coordinate the community’s recovery efforts. If you’re interested in volunteering, you can sign up at volunteeruwck.org.