If you live in a hurricane evacuation zone or a mobile home, you must evacuate when the evacuation order is issued. Your first choice should be to stay with a friend or family member living close by but who is not in a flood-vulnerable area.

Keep in mind: A shelter will not be a pleasant place. It might be crowded. You won’t be allowed to bring the comforts of home.

Also, do not head to a shelter until they are officially opened by Sarasota or Manatee counties. They will announce on their websites, through social media and through the Herald-Tribune when shelters are opening.

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According to Sarasota County Emergency Management, residents should first seek out a friend or family member in a safe area to stay with and only go to an evacuation shelter as a last resort. If you do go to a shelter, expect to have no privacy, limited space and no conveniences or luxuries.

If an evacuation is called for, and you do not evacuate, you will be without fire rescue, law enforcement or emergency medical support until winds and waters subside.