How to Prepare for Hurricane Ian

As Hurricane Ian continues to approach the west coast of Florida, strong winds, heavy rain and storm surge could impact the Tampa Bay area and other parts of Florida. 

While Ian’s exact path still remains unclear, it’s important that you stay prepared to protect yourself, your family, pets and your home. 

Below is some important information you should consider as the region braces for Hurricane Ian. 

Emergency and Shelter Information

BayCare hospitals and outpatient facilities are not community shelters.  To help us focus on patient care, we are unable to provide shelter to the general public before, during or after a storm. We encourage you to monitor updates from your local emergency management officials about evacuations and shelter information. 

Hurricane Closures

Please visit BayCare.org for regular updates and closures. Also, continue to monitor weather forecasts and follow instructions from your local and state officials. 

Hospitals and Emergency Rooms

BayCare hospitals and emergency rooms are open for business as usual unless otherwise indicated on our website. For your information, here is a list of our hospitals and their phone numbers: https://baycare.org/hospitals. 

BayCare Medical Group Physician Appointments

For patients with a scheduled appointment, we plan to provide you with the option of a virtual, telemedicine visit rather than rescheduling your appointment. Telemedicine visits are typically available for many primary care, pediatrics and specialty needs. Learn more about our telehealth service BayCareAnywhere. 

Durable Medical Equipment

If you or a loved one is currently using durable medical equipment and needs assistance, please call 1-800-940-5151, option 3. Durable medical equipment includes oxygen, walkers, wheelchairs and CPAP.

Prescription Refills

If you or anyone in your household require daily medication, call your physician or pharmacy to refill current prescriptions. You should have at least an extra seven-day supply. Also, check to make sure you have a properly stocked first aid kit, extra batteries for hearing aids, spare glasses or contacts and syringes. Keep a list of medications, allergies and medical conditions with your important papers.

Food and Water 

Given Hurricane Ivan’s uncertainties, you should make sure you’re stocked up on food supply of nonperishable, easy-to-prepare foods for at least three to five days. Consider foods that are high in protein including canned meat, vegetables and fruits and don’t forget paper products and plastic utensils. You should also make sure you have protein bars, dry cereal or granola, dried fruit, peanut butter, canned juices, powdered milk, baby food or formula, pet food and treats. 

It's also crucial that you’re stocked up on water for at least three to five days. Red Cross recommends at least on gallon per day per person (or pet). You should increase your water supply if you live in a warmer climate, care for a sick or elderly relative or are pregnant. 

Personal Care 

Whether you evacuate or stay at home, you should make sure you have personal care items such as sanitation and personal hygiene products including hand sanitizer, soap, toothbrush and toothpaste, baby wipes and feminine products. 

You should also secure important papers in waterproof containers including your health summary, medication list, emergency contact numbers, photo ID, birth certificates, proof of address, deed/lease to your home, social security cards, bank documents, photo albums and insurance policies. 

Make sure you have multipurpose tools such as flashlights, batteries, cell phone and charger and battery-powered radio. 

For the latest BayCare’s Hurricane Ian updates and closures, click here.