Special needs shelters can provide a safe refuge for people who need help managing a health condition during a time of disaster. DOH-Lake manages and staffs our special needs shelters during emergency events that threaten the community.

We work in coordination with the Lake County Office of Emergency Management to ensure the safety of all our residents at these shelters.

During a disaster, special needs shelters are designed to care for people who do not require hospitalization but have the following needs:

  • Require oxygen therapy
  • Require uninterrupted power for medical equipment
  • Unable to take medications or monitor vital signs without assistance
  • Have chronic conditions requiring assistance with daily life activities
  • Health/medical conditions requiring professional observation or assistance
  • Health conditions that require isolation and cannot be in a public/general shelter

A caregiver must be present during your stay at the shelter.