Sheltering

Each county in the state of Florida is required to maintain emergency shelters. Please consult a specific county Emergency Management website for information on shelter openings. For your convenience, refer to Lee County and Collier County Shelter operations.

FGCU Resident Students

The residence halls will be secured at a designated date and time and will not be re-opened until cleared for safety and security. You will not be able to access your room until the residence hall is evaluated for damage and safety. This could be several days after the storm passes based on repairs to be made.

FGCU Student Evacuation

Lee County Shelters

FGCU Non-Resident Students

Seek shelter in a safe location outside of the projected surge warning areas. Each county in the state of Florida is required to maintain emergency shelters. Look up shelters in your area by visiting your county's emergency management website.

Lee County Shelters

Collier County Shelters

What To Expect?

When an emergency arises, it can be a stressful time. Deciding whether or not to evacuate is an important decision you need to make. If you decide to stay in the area, here are some things you need to know about sheltering.

How Long Will I Be in the Shelter?
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A lot depends on the speed and storm path. Consult the projected path of the storm, including the time of landfall and the projected time it will take to pass the area. Time can range from a few hours to over 24 hours. Depending on the damage to the area it may take hours or days to clear the roads and gain a safety clearance for you to return to your home or residence hall. Plan to be in a shelter for a minimum of three days.
Packing your Bags
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Unlike depictions on TV and other media, shelters do not and cannot guarantee the provision of anything but a safer location to weather an emergency. Bring all items that you may need to keep you and those with you hydrated, fed, well rested, and entertained.
Things to Bring
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Food

Water/non-alcoholic drinks

Medicine and medical supplies

Charging devices (electrical outlets may not be available - bring solar charger or batter back-ups)

Pillows, blankets, and other bedding

Sanitary items (soap, hand sanitizer, wipes, paper towels)

Toiletries including hand towel and bath towel based on length of stay

Non-electrical items to pass the time (books, cards, board games)

If you are accompanied by children - bring enough food, formula, wipes, and diapers for at least three days
Items Prohibited
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Weapons

Illegal drugs

Alcohol

Items that produce flames or other hazards

Tents
Space Allocation
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Generally each person is provided 20 square feet, but the amount could be half of that or less in an extreme sheltering situation. Remember, emergency shelters do not prioritize your comfort, they are made to protect your well-being from outside hazards.