Sarasota County issues voluntary evacuation for Zone A, barrier islands

Brookside Middle is the only shelter that's open, but more should be opening later Friday.

By Cassidy Alexander
| 8:11 a.m. September 8, 2017

Sarasota County Emergency Management Chief Ed McCrane briefs media daily on what residents can expect. On Wednesday, Sheriff Tom Knight, Superintendent Todd Bowden and County Administrator Tom Harmer joined him.

Sarasota
News

A voluntary evacuation was issued around 8:30 a.m. for Sarasota County residents in Zone A, on barrier islands and in mobile homes.

This evacuation applies to Longboat, Lido, Siesta, Casey and Manasota keys, and the Island of Venice. To find out what evacuation zone you're in, click here.

Things to bring to a shelter with you

Sarasota County recommends that people bring all of their hurricane supplies with them to shelters, to last a minimum of three days per person. Here's the full list:

Personal hygiene supplies
Baby needs; diapers, formula, etc.
Personal medications and prescriptions enough for a 2 week supply
Battery operated television or radio and flashlight
Extra batteries
Blankets, pillows, sleeping bags or lawn chairs (bedding is not provided)
Sanitary supplies, wet wipes
Non-perishable foods for snacks
First aid kit
Extra clothing
Extra pair of eyeglasses
Travelers Checks/cash
Battery powered radio/TV and spare batteries
Rain gear and sturdy shoes
Keys
Vehicle fuel tanks filled
Wheelchair or walker if needed
Lawn chairs/folding chairs/chaise lounge
Cards, book, small games
Road maps
Wet and cold weather clothing
Pet foods and medications (Proof of current pet immunizations is required), leash, muzzle, medications, food and water
Special diet foods
Important documents such as birth certificates, insurance policies, insurance cards, social security card, important family and business contact numbers, health records, mortgages, deeds, titles, financial documents) kept in a protected place. Video taped documentation or list of all valuables.

At the time of publication, the only public shelter that was open was Brookside Middle School, at 3636 S. Shade Ave., Sarasota. A county spokesperson said more shelters will open later in the day, and will be posted on the county’s social media pages as they open.

At a press conference Thursday, Sarasota County Emergency Management Chief Ed McCrane said area hotels are already full with evacuees from South Florida, and the shelters would open to host those evacuees, and Sarasota County residents leaving low-lying areas.

If you are going to a shelter, McCrane said to bring all your supplies with you, including food and water, and books or quiet board games for kids.

“Shelters are basically a safe building,” McCrane said. Residents should bring pillows, blankets, cots or folding chairs, as those won’t be provided.

After the storm is over, people can leave, but the shelters will remain open in case anyone’s home has sustained damage. McCrane said people often return, and staff will help find a place for them to go.

The latest forecasts have Irma making landfall in south Florida, then pushing up the middle of the state. A hurricane watch extends from Anna Maria Island around the tip of Florida and through the Keys, back up the east coast to Sebastian Inlet. A hurricane warning extends from Bonita Beach to Jupiter Inlet.