When entering a Shelter....

[LAMOM]

YOU may ask why the following info is asked...it is because communications to the outside may be unavailable. This way family outside the area can check on you. This info is only given out if you authorize release of it!
Someone asked if ID was required...no. Yet you will be asked for your families last name, first name of each person with you, a maiden name for women, children's name, if there is a family member that should be with you but isn't and if you have know where they are. You will also be asked for a predisaster address as well as a postdisaster address if you have one.

Please take your important documents and medicines with you. Also, you will want to bring bedding, cots are limited. If you have children I would suggest that you take color books, books, etc to help keep them busy. Some shelters will only provide snacks and beverages until the danger passes, it just depends on how much time they had to set up...so take food with you.

If you have special needs please make sure you let the staff know.

Make sure you sign in and out as you move about after the storm. This is the only way the shelter staff can make sure there is enough food for all.

ON a personal note...i hope that if any of you are sitting this out in homes or buildings that are questionable that you please consider the safety of your families. Shelters may not be the most pleasant places to be during a storm but pleasant verses safety should be considered. Hopefully in doing so safety will win.

All of you are in my prayers and thoughts!