City highlights emergency tools, information for storm season

The city of Sanibel recently reported on the following in advance of hurricane season:
– Hurricane re-entry pass: The re-entry pass easily identifies who and when persons are authorized to return after an evacuation. The re-entry pass program is about safety and security, therefore getting a pass requires a short application and specific documentation. The passes are issued all year-long. Do not wait until a storm threatens to get one. Visit mysanibel.com/emergency-management.
In addition, the city will use the 2016 purple (residential) and tan (commercial) passes for the 2019 season. People already issued those passes do not need to apply.
– Family emergency plan: Completing the pre-formatted plan makes it a family’s emergency plan. Following it will provide safety and improve quality-of-life during an event. The plan is on the county website at leeeoc.com.
– CodeRED: Both the city and county use the popular tool to send targeted emergency alerts. Receive alerts on multiple phones such as a home and/or cell. Sign-up for the free service at mysanibel.com (in the Quick Links on the right side).
– Special needs program: The program provides shelter from a tropical storm or hurricane for those who live in a home and/or area that is not safe from storm surge or wind, and who have no other safe place to go. It also provides transportation to a shelter for those who do not have a way to get there. The program is available to Lee County residents at no cost, but people must pre-register every year. Application processing stops when the county enters the five-day forecast cone of a storm. To register, residents can contact F.I.S.H of Sanible-Captiva at 239-472-4775 or visit online at leeeoc.com.
– All Hazards Guide, additional information and tips: A great resource on a variety of topics like preparations, shelters, contacts and more is the All Hazards Guide page at leeeoc.com.
– Flood hazards: The Federal Emergency Management Agency lists the entire city as a Special Flood Hazard Area. Floods kill almost 200 people a year in the United States, of which 50 percent are vehicle related. Remember, “Turn Around – Don’t Drown!”
For information, visit mysanibel.com/emergency-management.