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WATERCOLOR
NORTHWEST FLORIDA
HURRICANE PREPAREDNESS PLAN
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1.0 INTRODUCTION
WaterColor is a community located in the Florida Panhandle’s Seagrove Beach.
As with other coastal communities, WaterColor’s hallmark white sandy beaches
and emerald coastal waters bring a responsibility to all residents to be aware of
potential natural hazards, including hurricanes and coastal flooding. This
Community Emergency Management Plan establishes a framework to ensure
that WaterColor will be prepared to deal with these hazards. The Plan outlines
the roles and responsibilities of residents, the WaterColor Community Association,
Inc., and the designated Community Disaster Coordinator before, during and
after a disaster.
The objectives of this Plan are twofold:
1) To enhance public awareness by providing residents and seasonal renters
with information to prepare them to respond to and recover from natural
disasters, and
2) To outline a concept of operations for coordinated disaster preparedness,
response and recovery actions.
The Plan has been prepared to be consistent with the Walton County
Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan (March 2006 Update). The plan
relies on source data developed in the area’s most recent hurricane evacuation
study, the Northwest Florida Evacuation Restudy (November 1997), and the
Walton County Family Preparedness Guide.
1.1 Community Profile
WaterColor is a 499-acre Southern coastal resort and residential community in
Northwest Florida, situated directly on the Gulf of Mexico, adjacent to the
acclaimed Grayton Beach State Recreation Area along south Walton County's
Scenic Highway 30A. WaterColor is located in the area known as Seagrove
Beach, an unincorporated community of South Walton County. Walton County
includes three incorporated municipalities; DeFuniak Springs, which is the County
Seat, Freeport and Paxton. Approximately 43,412 of the County’s estimated 2004
population of 50,543, or 86 percent, live in unincorporated areas.
At full build-out, the community is planned to include 1,022 residences; a Beach
Club, Tennis Club, and BoatHouse; a 60-room Inn; commercial space; dune
walkovers and boardwalks and a lakefront park. Nearly half the site is being
devoted to open space and preservation areas. It is expected that the
residences can house up to 2,781 residents, while the 60-room resort inn may
have upwards of 100 guests during peak occupancy periods. The total high
tourist occupancy population for the community is expected to be just fewer
than 3,000.
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Due to the location and character of the South Walton County area, many of
the residential units within WaterColor will be second homes and/or resort rental
units that will have varying seasonal occupancy rates. High seasonal
occupancy between the months of June and September is anticipated to be
approximately 90 percent, while occupancy rates from September through
December are anticipated to be 60 percent. The high seasonal occupancy
period corresponds in part with the Atlantic hurricane season, which runs from
June through November.
1.2 Regional Profile
Walton County encompasses 1,058 square miles in the Panhandle of Northwest
Florida. The County’s estimated 2004 population of 50,543 consist of 18 percent
urban dwellers, 36 percent living in a quasi-urban setting (urban densities, but no
incorporation) and the remaining 46 percent of the population reside in a rural
setting. The population of Walton County is concentrated in two primary areas;
north of Interstate 10, and along the coast, south of Choctawhatchee Bay.
WaterColor is located in this second area. These population centers include
permanently occupied dwelling units, of which mobile homes are a subset. The
area north of Interstate 10 has a greater representation of mobile homes.
Walton County also has a significant number of seasonal dwelling units, although
these units are located almost exclusively along the coast.
In the event of a natural disaster, portions of the County may be subject to a
mandatory evacuation order. Walton County has adopted an evacuation zone
map based on a range of factors, including storm tide inundation, or storm
surge. As a general rule, residents of mobile homes and tourists staying in
seasonal dwelling units are some of the first individuals to evacuate. Most
individuals who will be subject to evacuation will travel out of the area and
handle their own accommodation needs, either staying with family or friends or
in hotels. Some county residents will need to stay in public shelters. Due to
significant variations in seasonal population, the number of individuals
evacuating and the need for public shelter will increase during high tourist
occupancy. Maps portraying evacuation zones, as well as the evacuating
population and the public shelter demands in low tourist occupancy and high
tourist occupancy scenarios are included in Appendix B.
1.3 Community Organization
All property owners within WaterColor are members of the WaterColor
Community Association, Inc. By covenants, the Community Association has
accepted the responsibility of administering the Community Emergency
Management Plan (CEMP), since it is in the common interest of all property
owners to protect the lives and property within the community from the potential
impacts of hurricanes. The Community Association will review and approve the
WaterColor CEMP annually. In addition, the Community Association grants its
Board of Directors certain authorities to administer the plan.
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The Board of Directors (BOD) for the Community Association will be responsible
for coordinating all updates to the WaterColor CEMP. The BOD will also
designate a Community Emergency Manager (CEM) whose responsibilities will
include the management and implementation of this Plan. The CEM will function
as the community’s on-site Incident Commander during an emergency event.
The BOD will serve in an Executive function during an emergency event.
2.0 COMMUNITY AWARENESS PROGRAM
Community awareness is one of the two primary objectives of this plan. The
distribution of information is critical for any emergency planning process. This
plan has been structured to provide timely information to both individuals who
will be on-site and those who are absent from the area for all but a few weeks or
months of the year. The first group includes the permanent residents and project
and commercial employees who reside or work in WaterColor. The latter group
includes vacation home owners and individuals who rent seasonal property or
would be traveling to the community for a limited stay.
The high number of owners residing off-site and seasonal resort guests require the
conveyance of information to be structured to reach as many people as
possible. Since the high seasonal occupancy periods for WaterColor, which run
from June through September (Labor Day) correspond in part to the Atlantic
hurricane season, which falls between June 1 and November 30 annually, the
WaterColor Community Emergency Management Plan has been prepared to
use multiple media resources and strategies as a means of communications to
reach this large and varied set of customers.
The CEMP establishes a communications program to notify property owners and
guests who may be traveling to the area when there is a potential for
unfavorable weather conditions. Once notified of a potential storm, many of
these individuals may decide to defer travel to WaterColor until conditions
improve. This safeguard will reduce the number of community residents and
guests who would be on-site and require evacuation during a hurricane event.
The WaterColor resort management has adopted a policy to accommodate
any guests who wish to cancel a reservation or leave early due to potential
hurricane conditions in the area. Guest reservation fees or unused portions of
rental payments will either be refunded or used for future reservations at the
guest’s discretion.
Methods of communications are varied and include the distribution of printed
copies of the Plan, posted notices at appropriate locations on-site, bulletin
updates on evacuation plans and procedures, web page preparedness
information and notifications, and e-mail. Communication and outreach will
occur as a community service throughout the year, before the advent of any
potential natural hazard event. Direct, disaster related information will be
conveyed to residents by Community Emergency Manager (CEM) during and
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immediately following a disaster event to facilitate evacuations, disaster
response and recovery.
2.1 Hurricane Awareness Web Site
WaterColor maintains a webpage that can be accessed, via password, by
residents of their properties as well as those planning to visit their family of
communities. The website can be rapidly updated and provides access to
disaster specific preparedness, response and recovery information. Users must
access the website to register and obtain a password, which grants access to
community specific information. The WaterColor web page can be accessed
through www.mywatercolorcommunity.com, and is designed to be an
innovative means of packaging information for use by both on- and off-site
property owners and seasonal renters. Users need to log on and register as
members of the website. This plan prioritizes the use of the Internet, via the
community web page and through the use of email as the primary means of
communicating both general information and emergency notices to individuals
at diverse locations.
The web page will have the following features:
Single Information Source: Creates a single location where all information and
notices can be viewed regardless of the location of the individual needing the
data.
Banners: Publishes and updates information and web site notices that describe
hurricane events and alerts owners and guests of the precautions to take if a
severe storm threatens the area.
Travel Advisories: Provides notices of hurricane alerts to scheduled visitors so they
will defer travel to WaterColor properties during a possible storm event. This
notice to stay away will be posted within a reasonable specified time frame so
visitors can change or cancel travel plans or flights.
County Coordination: Provide a link to the Walton County Emergency
Management Website. Via direct links to that site, residents will be able to
access the Walton County Hurricane Preparedness Guide, the County
evacuation route map, and other outreach information. A version of the
evacuation map will be posted on the website.
Shelter Locations: Information on the locations of shelters will be included on the
evacuation map with emergency contact information and phone numbers.
Visitors and residents are encouraged to go to shelters only as a last resort.
Definitions: Provides definitions or explanations for terms used for natural hazard
events. (Example, the terminology of storm “warning” or “watch” may not be
familiar to someone who has not lived in an area that experiences these types of
natural disasters).
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Web Links: Provides links to websites that host weather related, emergency
management, and hotel destination information. Multiple links will be made
available on the public information site in the event that not all links are
accessible.
2.2 Web Page Content
In addition to the features listed in Section 2.1, the Webpage will be comprised
of the following sections; Overview, Mitigation, Preparedness, and Response. The
content of the website is included in this section of the CEMP.
Overview
Coastal Florida is subject to extreme forces of nature, from severe winds,
tornados, hurricanes, floods, and even wildfire. This website and the WaterColor
Community Emergency Management Plan focus on responses to a hurricane.
While hurricanes are particularly dangerous and likely the most common threat
that the community will face, the information included herein, including
guidance on evacuations, may be useful in other, non-hurricane events.
Planning ahead and understanding the terminology associated with emergency
management may reduce the chances of personal injury or major property
damages. Familiarity with the WaterColor Community Emergency Management
Plan will help in this process.
Emergency Management is the practice of planning for disasters and
implementing processes to address disaster-specific needs. Emergency
management has four phases; Mitigation, Preparedness, Response, and
Recovery. Mitigation includes steps taken to reduce the risk of life or property,
such as installing hurricane shutters. Preparedness includes public outreach, like
the WaterColor CEMP and this website, as well as developing Family
Preparedness Plans. Response – also known as Operations - is the phase that will
be managed by the Community Emergency Manager (CEM), and involved all of
the actions that need to be taken immediately before, during and just after a
natural hazard event. Recovery is the phase associated with restoring normalcy
after a disaster and includes returning to the community, insurance coordination
and repairs. A separate recovery section is not included in this plan.
Mitigation
Any action that you can take to reduce or eliminate the risk of injury or property
damage is mitigation. Residents and guests at WaterColor have the benefit of a
well designed community built to the stringent Florida Building Code.
Opportunities exist, however, for residents and guests to reduce their potential for
loss.
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Insurance
One of the most direct forms of mitigation is insurance. Residents need to
maintain adequate homeowner’s insurance. In addition, residents will need to
ensure that they have coverage for the peril of wind. Wind coverage, also
known as hurricane insurance, is often separate from the basic homeowners
insurance. A listing of toll free claims contact numbers and information on how
to file a claim with an insurance company is included in Appendix D.
Flood insurance is underwritten by the federal government’s National Flood
Insurance program, which is coordinated through FEMA. Flood insurance can
be purchased by any homeowner, regardless of whether your home is in a
floodplain or not, either through an independent agent, or directly from FEMA.
Anyone told that they cannot purchase flood insurance or that there is no need
to purchase flood insurance should consider contacting FEMA directly. Flood
losses will not be covered under homeowners or special wind coverage policies.
Structural Mitigation
The most important precaution you can take to reduce damage to your home
and property is to protect the areas where wind can enter. According to recent
wind technology research, it's important to strengthen the exterior of your house
so wind and debris do not tear large openings in it. You can do this by protecting
and reinforcing these five critical areas: Roof, Straps, Windows, Doors, and
Garage Doors. A great time to start securing - or retrofitting - your house is when
you are making other improvements or adding an addition.
Physical mitigation, through structural retrofits may make sense in some cases.
Approved hurricane shutters or other window, door and garage door protection
may be purchased and installed, based on the rules governing such activities, as
approved by the Community Association. The installation of impact resistant
glass is a good way to enhance mitigation that does not require the installation
of shutters prior to a storm event. Other mitigation options include clearing pine
needles from gutters of a home to reduce ignition from firebrands produced by
a wildfire and constructing a "safe room" in a structure to provide a safe haven
from tornadoes.
Preparedness
Preparedness includes public outreach activities and plans designed to educate
people on what to do before, during and after a disaster including how to
reduce the potential for losses during a disaster. As part of their preparedness
activities, Walton County has developed a registry of individuals with special
needs. In addition, the County has developed guidance documents, including
the Walton County Family Preparedness Guide. The State of Florida is stressing
an important aspect of disaster preparedness, specifically the development of a
Family Disaster Preparedness Plan. Every resident of WaterColor as well as in-
season guests should take time to develop a Family Disaster Preparedness Plan.
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Special Needs Registry
The Walton County Department of Emergency Management maintains a People
with Special Needs (PSN) Registry. In the event of a hurricane or other
catastrophe, this department will attempt to provide special medical
transportation and/or sheltering. Walton County sets up a special needs shelter
when an evacuation order is issued but medical help is very limited. The special
needs patient must be accompanied by someone who is fully capable of caring
for their needs.
Families who have members with special needs must take extra measures to
ensure their preparedness. The following are suggestions from the American Red
Cross and FEMA. Families with special needs must ask themselves the following
questions:
Can we manage the needs of our family for three days with little or no
outside help?
Can we meet any crisis or emergency on our own for that period of time?
Can we make decisions concerning our special needs without
consultation or help for three days?
Do we have the supplies and equipment to meet our special needs for
three days?
If the answer is “no” to any of the above questions, families must seriously
consider evacuation from their homes in the event of a disaster. Advance
preparation should include how to evacuate and where to relocate.
Information about this Registry can be obtained by calling the Walton County
Emergency Response Division at (850) 892-8066. To obtain the services offered
under this program, the completion and submission of a Special Needs
Registration Form will be required. The Special Needs Registration Form is
provided in Appendix E of the plan.
The Family Disaster Preparedness Plan
The Family Disaster Preparedness Plan should address the following items:
Discuss the type of hazards that could affect your family. Know your
home's vulnerability to storm surge, flooding and wind.
Locate a safe room or the safest areas in your home for each hurricane
hazard. In certain circumstances the safest areas may not be your home
but within your community.
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Determine escape routes from your home and places to meet (Rally
Points); including a child's school, a neighbor or a public place.
Have an out-of-state friend as a family contact, so all your family
members have a single point of contact. Have at least two ways of
contact; e-mail, phone, etc.
Make a plan now for what to do with your pets if you need to evacuate.
Post emergency telephone numbers by your phones and make sure your
children know how and when to call 911.
Check your insurance coverage - flood damage is not usually covered by
homeowners insurance.
Stock non-perishable emergency supplies and a Disaster Supply Kit.
Use a NOAA weather radio. Remember to replace its battery every 6
months, as you do with your smoke detectors.
Take First Aid, CPR and disaster preparedness classes.
As part of the plan, every family should stock a Disaster Supply Kit. Check the
supplies at the beginning of hurricane season each year. If a storm does not
occur, supplies can be saved for the next storm. Once the hurricane season is
over, canned foods can be used or donated to a holiday food drive. Most
canned foods have a shelf life of 1 to 2 years so it is a good idea to replenish
early.
The Disaster Supply Kit should, at a minimum include:
Water –
o at least 1 gallon daily per person for 3 to 7 days Food -
o at least enough for 3 to 7 days o non-perishable packaged or canned food / juices
o foods for infants or the elderly o snack foods
non-electric can opener
cooking tools / fuel
paper plates / plastic utensils
Blankets / Pillows, etc. Clothing - seasonal / rain gear/ sturdy shoes First Aid Kit / Medicines / Prescription Drugs Special Items –
o for babies and the elderly o Toiletries - hygiene items o Moisture wipes
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Tools - keep a set with you during the storm Flashlight / Batteries Radio - Battery operated and NOAA weather radio Extra Keys Cash - Banks and ATMs may not be open or available for extended
periods. Important documents - in a waterproof container (Document all
valuables with videotape if possible) Insurance, medical records, bank account numbers, Social Security card,
etc.
Toys, Books and Games Vehicle fuel tanks filled
Families with pets should take extra precautions to manage for the care of their
animals before, during and after a disaster by developing a Pet Disaster
Preparedness Plan. Red Cross shelters do not accept pets because of health
and safety regulations. Service animals are the only animals allowed in a Red
Cross shelter.
Contact hotels and motels outside Walton County to check policies on
accepting pets and restrictions on number, size and species. Ask if “no pet”
policies” could be waived in an emergency. Walton County Public Information
has a partial list of out of area hotels that accept pets. For more information
call 892-8530. Individuals should ask friends or family outside the area if they
could shelter your animals. Also, prepare a list of boarding facilities and
veterinarians who could shelter animals in an emergency. Keep a list of all
names and telephone numbers, and have a backup plan for your pet’s care.
Contact your veterinarian or local humane society for information on preparing
your pets for an emergency.
Before a Disaster:
Make sure that your pets are current on their vaccinations. Pet shelters
may require proof of vaccines.
Have a current photograph.
Keep a collar with identification on your pet and have a leash on hand to
control your pet.
Have a properly-sized pet carrier for each animal - carriers should be large
enough for the animal to stand and turn around.
Plan your evacuation strategy and don't forget your pet! Specialized pet
shelters, animal control shelters, veterinary clinics and friends and relatives
out of harm's way are ALL potential refuges for your pet during a disaster.
Learn about the AKC Companion Animal Recovery Program. If you plan
to shelter your pet - work it into your evacuation route planning.
During a Disaster:
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Animals brought to a pet shelter are required to have: Proper
identification collar and rabies tag, proper identification on all belongings,
a carrier or cage, a leash, an ample supply of food, water and food
bowls, any necessary medications, specific care instructions and news
papers or trash bags for clean-up.
Bring pets indoor well in advance of a storm - reassure them and remain
calm.
Pet shelters will be filled on first come, first served basis. Call ahead and
determine availability.
After a Disaster:
Walk pets on a leash until they become re-oriented to their home - often
familiar scents and landmarks may be altered and pets could easily be
confused and become lost. Also, downed power lines, reptiles brought in
with high water and debris can all pose a threat for animals after a
disaster.
If pets cannot be found after a disaster, contact the local animal control
office to find out where lost animals can be recovered. Bring along a
picture of your pet if possible.
After a disaster, animals can become aggressive or defensive - monitor
their behavior.
Don't forget your pet when preparing a family disaster plan.
Just like with family members, you should prepare certain items in advance to
help care for your pets. A Pet Disaster Supply Kit may include:
Proper identification including immunization records
Ample supply of food and water
A carrier or cage
Medications
Muzzle, collar and leash Toys and treats
Hazards Awareness
The most common hazard that residents and guests of WaterColor will face is a
hurricane. In order to plan for and respond to a hurricane, it is important to
understand hurricane related terms and the danger that hurricanes pose.
Tropical Storms are cyclonic storms, or storms that more in a counter-clockwise
rotation. A hurricane is a tropical storm with winds that have reached a constant
speed of 74 miles per hour or more. A hurricane can bring torrential rains, high
winds, and storm surges, can last for more than two weeks over open waters,
and can run a path across the entire length of a state’s land mass.
Hurricane force winds, 74 miles per hour or more, can destroy buildings. Debris
can become flying missiles in hurricanes. The 74 to 160 miles per hour winds of a
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hurricane can extend inland for hundreds of miles. It is extremely important to
secure your home and cover your windows before the storm. Hurricanes can
also generate tornadoes, adding further damage from the storm.
Hurricanes can produce widespread torrential rains of often more than 10 inches
which may result in destructive floods. Flooding caused by heavy rains during
the storm can cause damage and loss of life. This is also a major threat to areas
well inland.
Storm surge is envelope of sea or bay water pushed by the hurricane force
winds, like a tidal wave. In hurricanes, the surge inundates coastal areas when
the hurricane reaches land, destroying homes and businesses in its path. The
storm surge generated from a hurricane is even more dangerous than high
winds. The surge can be 20 feet or more in height and 50 to 100 miles in width,
and has the ability to devastate coastal communities as is comes ashore. Most
hurricane related fatalities are due to storm surge.
Hurricanes are categorized by intensity based on a scale that runs from one to
five. The scale is commonly known as the Saffir-Simpson Scale. The Saffir-
Simpson hurricane intensity category system was developed in the 1970s to
calculate the destructive force of hurricanes. Since damage from hurricanes
comes from a combination of factors, including wind, rain, floods, storm-surge
height, and tornadoes, the Saffir-Simpson scale is used to gauge a hurricane
based on all these factors. It is important to remember that hurricanes of any
category of strength can be potentially deadly events. Hurricanes can exceed
the minimum level of winds needed to attain Category 5 status.
Sustained winds in excess of 155 miles per hour can last for hours with peak winds
of over 200 miles per hour. Gulf and Bay water levels could rise 25 feet or more
above normal. Tornadoes are likely. Heavy rains can flood low lying areas and
swell rivers over their banks. Homes, Utilities, Businesses, Schools and roads can be
seriously damaged. The storm categories and their triggering wind speeds are
listed below:
Storm Category Wind Speed
Category 1 74 – 95 MPH
Category 2 96 – 110 MPH
Category 3 111 – 130 MPH
Category 4 131 – 155 MPH
Category 5 155+ MPH
A hurricane watch is issued when there is a threat of hurricane conditions within
36 hours. When a hurricane warning is issued, hurricane conditions are expected
within the next 24 hours.
Response
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Response includes those actions taken to address the immediate needs
associated with a disaster. For the purposes of the WaterColor CEMP, the
Response section includes basic information on evacuations, sheltering, an
operational plan for residents, and key contact information.
Evacuations
The Northwest Florida Hurricane Restudy (1997) established evacuation zones in
Walton County. Evacuation zones for Walton County identify areas of the
County that may be required to evacuate in the various categories of
hurricanes. The Category 1 (75-95 mph winds) hurricane evacuation zone is
generally along the Gulf Coast and Choctawhatchee Bay. Category 2 and 3
(96 to 130 mph winds) evacuation areas are all remaining areas south of
Choctawatchee Bay, and the Category 4 and 5 evacuation areas include all
Category 1 through 3 zones plus low lying uplands along the embankments and
tributaries of Choctawatchee Bay.
The coastal areas of the WaterColor project are within the Category 1
Evacuation Area. The remainder of the project, generally north of Western Lake,
is within the Category 2-3 Additional Evacuation Area. Guests and residents
within these zones would be required to evacuate during a Category 2 hurricane
or above based on final decisions by state and local authorities.
Evacuation routes should be followed for safe evacuation. It is essential that
during a hurricane event, evacuation is carried out in a timely and efficient
manner. Familiarize yourself with the evacuation route for the WaterColor area.
Evacuations will take more time during high tourist occupancy season due to the
increased population in the region.
Maps of the evacuation route network showing shelter locations, as well as maps
demonstrating seasonal variations in expected traffic congestion are included in
Appendix F to the plan.
Based on monitored weather events, the WaterColor Community Emergency
Manager (CEM) may recommend that people voluntarily self evacuate in
advance of formal evacuation orders. Voluntary, pre-notification self
evacuation is preferable because the evacuation routes will not be restricted. In
general, evacuation from WaterColor involves reaching Interstate 10, and then
taking I-10 out of the area. If self evacuating prior an official evacuation order, it
may make sense to travel west once reaching State Road 20, to take State Road
81 to I-10. If ordered to evacuate, and you are going to leave the region or go
to a hotel, you must leave early. Pre-determine your route when possible.
Sheltering
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There are no public hurricane shelters south of Choctawhatchee Bay and no
designated shelters within WaterColor. All residents south of the Bay are required
to evacuate in a Category 2 hurricane or higher. The northwest Florida
Hurricane Evacuation Restudy indicates that Walton County has a surplus of
emergency shelter spaces. In total 5,620 public shelter spaces may be available
during a Category 3 hurricane event. The study identified 2,527 evacuees
needing local shelter within Walton County for a low-level seasonal occupancy
and 3,329 evacuees for a high seasonal occupancy time frame. Behavioral
studies of previous evacuations indicate that shelters are used by residents who
have no alternative place to go. A large percentage of evacuees will shelter
with family or friends rather than public shelters.
Since a large number of WaterColor residents are either second home owners or
resort guests, a large percentage of the evacuees are anticipated to return to
their main residence out of the region (estimated at 25 percent) or choose to
stay at a motel/hotel inland (estimated at 35 percent). Typically, residents of the
area shelter with friends or relatives (30 percent). Only 5 percent of evacuees
seek public shelters, while another 5 percent can be expected to avoid
evacuation. Based on these percentages, for planning purposes, approximately
139 WaterColor residents may need to seek public shelters during a hurricane
evacuation. This assumes 100 percent occupancy of the project at the time of
the evacuation, which is unlikely in practice.
Just as most WaterColor residents will voluntarily self evacuate prior to an official
evacuation order, so too should residents and guests plan to handle their own
evacuation accommodations. Most evacuees weather the storm at the home
of a friend or relative living outside of the evacuation area or at a similarly
located hotel or motel. Residents should plan in advance by identifying the
names and telephone numbers of these individuals or of inland hotels where
reservations can be made. Residents and guests must be prepared to drive 20
to 50 miles inland to locate a safe place to stay. Arrangements for pets should
be thought through before hurricane season. Pets (except for registered helper
animals) are not allowed in emergency shelters. Many hotels do not accept
pets.
The public hurricane shelters provided by Walton County are managed by the
American Red Cross, which maintains strict guidelines for their use. If residents
and visitors wish to use these public shelters, it is recommended that they do so
only as a last resort. Public shelter space may be limited and should be reserved
for individuals without the means to shelter elsewhere. Residents should
determine which shelter is closest, should they have to go there. Shelter
openings may vary with each hurricane. Residents should stay informed and up-
to-date with local media broadcasts for which shelters will be open. Individuals
should plan to take their emergency supplies to the shelter.
Potential Hurricane Shelters in Walton County include:
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Public Shelters:
Freeport High School
Located at 12615 Hwy 331 South, just North of Freeport, on right side of road.
Freeport High School will open first as a general population shelter/special needs
shelter until the generator is installed at the Walton Middle School Bldg. 900.
Okaloosa-Walton Community College, Chautauqua Center, Building 2
Located at 908 US Hwy 90 W, DeFuniak Springs
Special Needs Shelter:
Walton Middle School (Special Needs Only)
Located at 625 Park Ave. DeFuniak Springs
Shelter of Last Resort (Will be isolated when winds reach 40 miles per hour):
South Walton High School
Located at 24926 US Hwy 331 South, Santa Rosa Beach
Residential Disaster Response Plan
The WaterColor Community Association BOD and the Community Emergency
Manager may take steps during the period leading up to a disaster to track the
activities of hurricanes or other natural hazards and make community wide
recommendations. These recommendations will be posted on this website. In
the absence of updates, it is imperative that residents and guests take personal
responsibility to monitor events. In addition, residents and guests are expected
to follow the Residential Disaster Response Plan. The Plan is phased based on
four pre-event hurricane advisories, which are easy to track via the media (Radio
and TV), the Internet (this website, or the websites of the National Weather
Service and related agencies), or by direct information provided by the
Community Emergency Manager.
Phase I: Hurricane Caution Warning
Definition: When there is a threat of a tropical storm south of Cuba, in the
Atlantic, threatening to cross Florida or threatening to cross the Gulf
within 36 hours.
Actions:
WaterColor EOC remains at a Code Green.
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Residents should remain aware of storm activity through casual monitoring
via print media, TV, radio and the Internet.
Phase II: Hurricane Caution Watch
Definition: When a hurricane passes into or develops within the Gulf of Mexico,
described by 23 degrees North Latitude and 80 degrees West
Longitude.
Actions:
WaterColor EOC will move to a Code Yellow. WaterColor will activate the Emergency Operations Center (EOC). WaterColor staff will place a caution notice on the webpage. Residents and guests should closely monitor the storms progress. Residents should review their Family Disaster Preparedness Plans and
check to ensure that they have necessary and sufficient supplies
Phase III: Hurricane Watch
Definition: A hurricane watch is issued when there is a threat of hurricane
conditions within 36 hours.
Actions:
WaterColor EOC will move to a Code Orange. Residents should prepare for a hurricane, and: Listen to radio or television for hurricane progress reports. Check emergency supplies. Obtain any needed items. Refill prescriptions. Maintain at least a two-week supply. Get cash. Banks and ATMs will not be in operation without electricity.
Fill car fuel tanks. Check oil, water and tires. Many gas station pumps will
not function without electricity. Clear yard of any potential flying debris. Bring in outdoor objects (lawn
furniture, toys, trash cans, etc.) and anchor objects that cannot be
brought inside. Remove outside antennas. Close and board up windows and glass doors. Brace double entry and
garage doors at the top and bottom. Turn refrigerator and freezer to coldest settings. Open only when
necessary and close quickly. Store drinking water in clean jugs, bottles, and cooking utensils. It may be
a good idea to freeze the water. Fill bathtub with water for sanitary use such as flushing toilets. Review evacuation plan. Secure boat or move to a safe place early. Secure boat to trailer, use tie-
downs to anchor trailer to the ground or house. Leave swimming pool filled and super-chlorinated. Cover the filtration
system.
- 17 -
Phase IV: Hurricane Warning
Definition: A hurricane watch is issued when hurricane conditions are
expected within 24 hours or less. Stay tuned to emergency
broadcasts for evacuation orders that may be given. If you are
ordered to evacuate consider the following:
Actions:
WaterColor EOC will move to a Code Red. WaterColor recommends evacuation when a hurricane warning advisory
issued by the National Weather Service is conveyed by Walton County
Emergency Management. Plan to leave as soon as possible. Avoid flooded roads and watch for
washed-out bridges. Secure your home by unplugging appliances, and turning off electricity,
gas and the main water valve. Lock windows and doors. Tell someone outside of the storm area where you are going. Take emergency supplies and warm / dry / waterproof protective
clothing. Take blankets and sleeping bags if going to a shelter. Take important papers with you, including drivers license, medical
information, insurance policies and property inventory, as well as pictures
of the residence or home. If time permits, wrap electrical appliances such as computers in plastic.
Elevate furniture and valuables to protect them from flooding. Move
them to a higher floor if possible.
During a Category 1 hurricane warning, if the zone you live in is not required
to evacuate, the following precautions should be noted.
Review your family communication plan. Your family may not be
together or may be separated during the emergency. Review how to
contact each other. Consider a plan where each person in the family
contacts or e-mails the same friend or family member. Keep in mind it
may be easier to make a long distance call than a local call. Listen constantly to a radio or television for official instructions. Store valuables and personal papers in a waterproof container on the
highest level of your home. These may include: Drivers License, Medical
Information, Proof of Ownership of house, Insurance Policies, Listing of
Important Contact Numbers, and Pictorial and Listed Inventory of
Property. Avoid elevators. Stay inside, away from windows, skylights and glass doors. Find a safe room in your home, an interior, reinforced room, closet or
bathroom, on the lower floor. Keep a supply of flashlights and extra batteries handy. Avoid open
flames, such as candles and kerosene lamps, as a source of light.
- 18 -
If power is lost, turn off major appliances to reduce power surge when
electricity is restored. If flooding threatens your home, turn off electricity at the main breaker. Store drinking water in jugs, bottles, and cooking utensils. Fill bathtubs with water to be used for flushing toilets and sanitation in the
home. Wait for official word that danger is over.
Phase V: Landfall
Completing preparations before hurricane season, including the development
of a Family Disaster Preparedness Plan, is the most prudent approach to dealing
with the threat of an emergency. When a storm strike is imminent, it is a poor
time to begin emergency preparations. If you are prepared and informed, you
will be better prepared to cope with unforeseen issues. However, if you are
required to remain on-site during a storm event, key actions can be taken to
help to reduce the potential for exacerbating property damage, sustaining
grave injury, or death.
Actions:
Pull electrical plugs if there is a danger of flooding. If you remain in the home, avoid windows and doors. Keep a clear head. Remain alert in life threatening situations. Try not to
be influenced by drugs or alcohol. Do not go outside until the advisories are issued that the storm has
passed. Do not be fooled by the temporary “calm” that occurs when the
eye passes directly overhead. Have an “old” type of phone that does not require electricity. The new
phones require electricity. Be extremely cautious about an open flame or the hazard of fire. Water
pressure may be low and the area may be inaccessible by Fire & Rescue. Limit the use of telephone service to emergencies only. Remember, even in a minor storm. Tap water may not be safe. Use the
emergency supplies or boiled water set aside until you know it is safe to
consume it. Barbecue grills should not be used within 10 feet of a building due to risk of
fire and carbon monoxide. Your refrigerator will remain cool even though the power is out. Freezers
can keep food fresh for several days if not opened. If the water supply is disrupted; remember a toilet may be flushed by
pouring a bucket of water into the bowl (not the tank). Use the water
being stored in the tub for these purposes. Dry out homes using fans as soon as possible after the storm passes to
avoid mildew. Keep some bleach on hand for preventative and removal
of mildew.
- 19 -
If using a generator, the directions should be followed carefully. Do not
run the generator in an enclosed space or under an eve. Please be sure
to exhaust the carbon monoxide properly.
Key Contact Information
Residents should maintain a list of key contacts that will help support efforts to
evacuate and recover from a disaster. In addition to key contacts, residents
should be aware of local television and radio stations. In the event of a power
loss, battery operated radios may be the best source of up-to-date information.
A list of key phone number and the TV and radio station call numbers is included
below. A more comprehensive telephone list of community contacts in included
in Appendix G.
Important Contact Information
Red Cross 850-432-7601
Emergency
911
Walton County Sheriff 850-267-2000
Walton County Emergency Management 850-892-8065
Special Needs Registry 850-892-8066
Fire Department 850-267-1298
FEMA 800-621-FEMA
National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) 1-888-CALL – FLOOD
ext. 445
Local emergency broadcast information is provided on the following frequencies
and channels:
Radio: Television:
WZEP 1460 AM
WMBB (ABC) Channel 13
WSBZ 106.3 FM
WJHG (NBC) Channel 7
WKGC 90.7 FM
WGTX 1280 AM
3.0 EMERGENCY OPERATIONS
- 20 -
The second primary objective of the plan is to outline a concept of operations
for coordinated disaster preparedness, response and recovery actions.
Operations will cover roles and responsibilities of the WaterColor Community
Emergency Manager and critical actions to be taken as part of the WaterColor
CEMP.
3.1 Incident Command and Coordination
In the event of an emergency, WaterColor has designated a Community
Emergency Manager (CEM) to function as an Incident Commander. The CEM
has a range of duties including managing an Emergency Operations Center,
monitoring actions to be taken as part of an operational action plan, and
coordinating with local, state and federal officials. The CEM will coordinate with
the local sheriff’s and fire department personnel, and other emergency
management agencies during an impending hurricane event to assist in the
notification, warning and evacuation of residents.
3.2 Emergency Operations Center
The WaterColor Emergency Operations Center (EOC) is under the direction of
the CEM. The EOC will be activated when a hurricane enters the Gulf of Mexico
or earlier at the discretion of the Hurricane Preparedness Manager. The CEM will
review hurricane preparedness requirements and procedures with the hurricane
preparedness team members and continue monitoring the storm’s progress by
viewing national and local weather reports.
The Center will be equipped and staffed to fulfill the following responsibilities:
monitor national weather forecasts and track storms in the Gulf; provide communications internally with resort staff members; operate the Web page; e-mail notification to property owners and renters; answer questions regarding existing conditions, personal safety, property
protection, and evacuation; and coordinate with local emergency management officials.
3.3 Evacuations
3.3.1 Procedures
The Northwest Florida Hurricane Restudy (1997) established evacuation zones in
Walton County. The coastal areas of the WaterColor project are within the
Category 1 Evacuation Area. The remainder of the project, generally north of
Western Lake, is within the Category 2-3 Additional Evacuation Area. Guests and
residents within these zones will be required to evacuate during a Category 2
hurricane or above based on final decisions by state and local authorities.
- 21 -
An evacuation advisory will be announced by the CEM at an appropriate time,
but no later than when a hurricane warning has been declared. The evacuation
of the WaterColor community will commence with the declaration of a
hurricane warning for the South Walton area by the State Emergency Operation
Center and Walton County Emergency Management. This hurricane warning
indicates that potentially dangerous hurricane condition can be expected within
24 hours.
Since a Hurricane 2 warning precedes an announced mandatory evacuation of
the area by Walton County Emergency Management, residents and guests of
WaterColor will be encouraged to evacuate WaterColor prior to general
evacuation of South Walton County. This early evacuation of WaterColor should
result in a decrease in project traffic on evacuation routes during the mandatory
evacuation.
3.3.2 Evacuation Routes
Evacuation routes for South Walton County are also identified in the Northwest
Florida Hurricane Evacuation Restudy. For WaterColor, these routes include US
Highway 98 and US Highway 331. Evacuees from WaterColor will proceed north
on CR 395 or CR 283 to US 98, west on US 98 to US 331, then north on US 331 to SR
20, where the evacuees will be directed east or west along SR 20. East flowing
traffic would proceed to SR-81, where it will proceed north through the rural
communities of Bruce and Red Bay to I-10. West flowing traffic on SR 20 will
proceed through Freeport to the continuation of north bound US 331, then north
to I-10 or DeFuniak Springs on US Highway 90.
In order to expedite evacuation of the area, the Emergency Management may
turn both travel lanes into one way directional travel out of the area. Should this
occur, evacuees should follow the direction of the Walton County Sheriff’s
Department and Florida Highway Patrol.
Other north bound evacuation routes, such as SR 79 in Bay County and SR 85
and 285 in Okaloosa County will be carrying evacuees from their respective
counties. Residents and guests from WaterColor are encouraged to use the
designated evacuation routes identified on Exhibit 1 of this Plan.
3.3.3 Evacuation Time
Evacuation time is dependent on a number of variables including the severity
and speed of the storm, tourist occupancy, condition of the evacuation routes,
and the speed of public response to the evacuation order. The Northwest
Florida Hurricane Evacuation Restudy estimates that 12 hours are required to
evacuate vulnerable areas of the County for Category 3 storm events. A
Category 4-5 hurricane during high occupancy periods would require up to 21
hours to evacuate. The evacuation should be completed by the time the
hurricane eye is 4 to 8 hours from coastal landfall. Generally, this is the time
- 22 -
frame when squall lines, heavy rain and coastal flooding begin to affect the
local area. WaterColor will commence evacuation at the issuance of a
hurricane warning for the area which is typically 6 to 8 hours ahead of the
mandatory evacuation order by Walton County. This approach will reduce the
impact that WaterColor traffic will have on the evacuation route by spreading
trips over an 18 to 20 hour period and significantly accelerating the evacuation
of the WaterColor community.
If all seasonal homes and hotel rooms at WaterColor are 100 percent occupied
at 18-24 hours before the eye is anticipated to make landfall, WaterColor will
contribute a maximum of 1,361 evacuating vehicles to US 331 as and below SR
20 over the entire evacuation period. If the same number of vehicles left in an
equal amount every hour for 18 to 20 hours, then WaterColor’s hourly
contribution would be 68 to 76 vehicles per hours compared to a LOS E hourly
service volume of 1,500 vehicles per hour. However, studies of hurricane
evacuations indicate that individuals will not leave in equal hourly increments.
Their response is usually a bell-shaped response. Based on these studies,
WaterColor’s largest contribution to evacuation route traffic in any one hour
would be about 15% of the total evacuation vehicles generated by the
development over the 18-20 hours. That figure would be a worst-hour
contribution of 204 evacuation vehicles, which translates to 13.6% of LOS E hourly
service volume. Therefore, the early evacuation of WaterColor required by this
Hurricane Preparedness Plan will reduce traffic volumes on the nearest
evacuation route below the level of a significant regional impact as defined by
the Department of Community Affairs’ Hurricane Preparedness Policy Rule, Rule
9J-2.0256, F.A.C.
3.4 Sheltering
Walton County has several approved evacuation shelters with space available
for up to 5,620 evacuees. Of this total number of available County shelter
spaces, 3,329 are forecast to be needed during a high seasonal storm event.
The remaining 2,291 spaces are surplus and available to accommodate future
growth within the County. During high seasonal occupancy periods, WaterColor
evacuees are anticipated to require 139 of these available spaces. However,
trends indicate that public shelters are considered as a last resort. Evacuees are
more likely to return home or stay with friends rather than use the available
public shelters. The approved emergency shelters are located north of the Bay
predominately in the vicinity of DeFuniak Springs. No shelters are proposed or
required for WaterColor due to its location south of the Bay and within the
Category 1 and 2 evacuation zones.
3.5 Concept of Operations
The implementation of disaster response activities is based on a four-phased,
color coded system for grouping necessary actions. The color coded system
- 23 -
ranges from “code green” (all clear), through codes yellow, orange and red,
signifying different levels of hurricane threat.
Code green is the state prior to a natural disaster. It is also declared as a result of
receiving an “all clear” after a hurricane passes and all tropical storm force
winds subside.
Code yellow will be declared as a result of the advisory of a Hurricane Caution
Watch. This occurs when a hurricane passes into or develops within the Gulf of
Mexico, described by 23 degrees North Latitude and 80 degrees West Longitude.
Code orange will be declared as a result of an advisory of a Hurricane Watch. A
hurricane watch is issued when there is a threat of hurricane conditions within 36
hours.
Code red will be declared as a result of an advisory of a Hurricane Warning. A
hurricane warning is issued when there is a threat of hurricane conditions within
24 hours or less.
3.6 Emergency Operations Procedures
The following checklist summarizes the actions to be taken at each phase of
emergency operations. All actions will be managed by the WaterColor CEM,
unless otherwise noted.
Hurricane Caution Watch (Code Yellow)
When a hurricane passes into or develops within the Gulf of Mexico, Code Yellow
will require:
activate the Emergency Operations Center when a hurricane enters the
Gulf of Mexico (longitude 80 degrees, latitude 23 degrees); place cautionary notification on the WaterColor web page when a
hurricane enters the Gulf of Mexico; review the Community Emergency Management Plan; monitor the need to purchase storm supplies; monitoring of all active hurricane activities; and
coordinate with commercial renters and contractors regarding hurricane
preparedness procedures;
Hurricane Watch (Code Orange)
Begin the following activities when a hurricane watch is declared for Walton
County.
- 24 -
begin preparing the public and commercial areas for the hurricane; place cautionary notice to property owners and visitors on the WaterColor
web page suggesting users to review National Weather Service forecasts; coordinate with local and state emergency management officials
regarding hurricane evacuation.
Hurricane Warning (Code Red)
Perform the following activities when a hurricane watch is declared for Walton
County.
advise residents and guests of the need to evacuate; place a notice on the web page advising people that due to the
issuance of a hurricane warning for the area they should not plan to visit
WaterColor until the storm event has passes; notify local and state emergency management officials that an
evacuation notice has been given to residents and guests of WaterColor; evacuate project emergency management staff.
All Clear (Code Green)
place “all clear” message on the WaterColor web page; assess damage; and prepare the public and commercial facilities for reopening.
3.7 Hurricane Notifications
WaterColor will use its web site, e-mail, telephone, and posted on-site notices to
provide notification of potential storm events to property owners and renters.
The web banner will convey messages similar to the ones provided below for
each phase of the operations plan. These messages must remain flexible to
convey advisory information; therefore the content may be revised as necessary
to accomplish the objective.
The first notification will be issued when a hurricane enters the Gulf of Mexico.
Hurricane (name) has entered the Gulf of Mexico. While it is unlikely that
this storm will influence the weather conditions of the northwest Florida
coastal areas, WaterColor recommends that you observe the progress of
the storm prior to departing for reserved rental accommodations in the
area.
A second notification will be issued upon an announced hurricane watch. This
notice will be distributed through such means as e-mail and web page banners,
and posted notices at the Inn and resort management check-in desk.
- 25 -
A hurricane watch has been declared for the Gulf Coastal area of Walton
County, including WaterColor. While no official evacuation order has
been ordered, caution is recommended and you may wish to delay your
visit until weather conditions have improved.
A third notification will occur with the announcement of a hurricane warning.
This announcement will also be distributed by e-mail and web page.
A hurricane warning has been declared for the Gulf Coastal areas of
Walton County, including WaterColor. Do not depart for the area until the
warning has been lifted and weather conditions improve. If you are
currently in the area, please evacuate. See web site connections for
evacuation routes and shelter locations.
Any official notifications or evacuation orders will be posted on the web site
when they are received.
A final “all clear” notification will be issued when the threat of the hurricane has
passed.
As of (date, time), the danger of a hurricane for northwest Florida,
including Walton County and WaterColor, has passed. You are
encouraged to continue with your planned visit to the area. We look
forward to seeing you at WaterColor.
3.8 Plan Maintenance
The Community Emergency Manager will be responsible for maintaining the
operational readiness of the Community Emergency Management Plan. The
CEM will review the plan annually and make recommendations to the HOA BOD
for evaluation and enhancements. In addition, the CEM will perform routine
community emergency management functions, as listed below.
Annual Activities
maintain hurricane information web page; update web page annually as appropriate; provide annual updates to property owners and renters as appropriate; monitor all hurricane activities during the storm season; check the operational readiness of the Emergency Operations Center;
and coordinate with regional emergency management officials prior to the
start of hurricane season. check supplies and replace as appropriate.
- 26 -
APPENDICES
- 27 -
Appendix A:
Evacuation Zone Maps
Evacuation Zones
Evacuating Population – Low Tourist Occupancy
Evacuating Population – High Tourist Occupancy
Public Shelter Demand – Low Tourist Occupancy
Public Shelter Demand – High Tourist Occupancy
- 28 -
Evacuation Zones
- 29 -
Evacuating Population – Low Tourist Occupancy
- 30 -
Evacuating Population – High Tourist Occupancy
- 31 -
Public Shelter Demand – Low Tourist Occupancy
- 32 -
Public Shelter Demand – High Tourist Occupancy
- 33 -
- 34 -
Appendix C:
Toll Free Claims Contact Numbers
- 35 -
Toll Free Claims Contact Numbers
Allstate Commercial 800-547-8676
Allstate Personal 800-547-8676
AXA RE 800-216-3711
Bankers 800-756-9700
C N A 877-262-2727
Chubb Insurance Group 800-252-4670
Citizens Wind 866-411-2742
Clarendon National 800-216-3711
Companion Property 800-649-2948
Crum & Forster 800-690-5520
Cypress Property 888-352-9773
Encompass Insurance 800-588-7400
FCCI Insurance Group 800-226-3224
Fidelity National Insurance 800-220-1351
Fidelity National Property 800-725-9472
Fireman’s Fund (Personal & Commercial) 888-347-3428
First Community 800-437-2742
First Floridian 800-252-4633
First Protective 800-675-0145
Florida Select 888-700-0101
Foremost 800-527-3907
GuideOne 888-748-4326
Hartford Commercial 800-327-3636
Hartford Flood 800-759-8656
Hartford Personal 800-637-5410
ICAT 866-789-4228
Lexington Personal 800-355-4891
MetLife Auto & Home 800-854-6100
Omega Insurance 800-216-3711
Progressive 800-925-2886
Regency Insurance 800-216-3711
Royal & SunAlliance 800-847-6925
St Paul / Travelers 800-787-2851 or
800-238-6225
Sunshine State 877-563-0150
Tower Hill 800-216-3711
Travelers Flood 800-505-0193
Travelers Boat & Yacht 800-772-4482
Universal Property & Casualty 800-470-0599
Vanguard Fire & Casualty 888-343-5585
Zurich 800-987-3373
- 36 -
Should It Be Necessary To File A Claim With An Insurance Company
As soon as possible, register your property with the insurance carrier as
being subject to a claim even if the damage is not known. There should
be an 800 number listed on the policy. The previous page has names and
phone numbers listed of many of these companies.
Obtain from your insurance agent a definitive procedure for filing claims.
Know what forms, documents, or information is needed to support a
claim.
Be prepared to supply the agent with a copy of legal papers concerning
the loss.
Review the policy to know what it covers.
Review the policy to know what the deductible are.
Keep a written record of expenses related to the loss, including receipts
for materials used in temporary repairs.
Do not have damaged material or furniture hauled away until it has been
accounted for by an adjustor.
Most policies cover additional living expenses as well as damages. Such
policies will usually advance money for temporary shelter, food, and
clothing if the home cannot be occupied.
Pictorial history of conditions existing in and outside the home before the
disaster is invaluable in securing an adequate insurance adjustment. Post
disaster pictorial documentation may also prove to be of major help in
realizing a proper settlement.
- 37 -
Appendix D:
Special Needs Registration
- 38 -
INITIAL CHANGE DNRO: YES NO
WALTON COUNTY
SPECIAL NEEDS PATIENT REGISTRATION FORM
PLEASE PRINT
Last Name, First Name: _____________________________________________MI: _______ Speak English? ____ Yes _____ No
Street Address: _________________________ City: ________________Zip Code: ___________ Home Phone: ________________
TDD/TDY: Y N Social Sec. #: _______ - _______ - ________ DOB: ______/______/______ Age: ________ Sex: _______
Next of Kin Name: __________________________________ Home Phone: ________________ Relationship: _________________
Emergency Contact Name: ____________________________ Home Phone: ________________ Relationship: ________________
Doctor’s Name: __________________________________________________ Phone: ____________________________________
Please List Main Illness (DO NOT LEAVE BLANK) :
________________________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________________
LIVING SITUATION IMPAIRMENT DISASTER PLAN DIRECTIONS TO HOME
(Check All That Apply)
Mobile Home/Trailer
Dependent on Electricity
Emergency Alert Equipment
Life Sustaining Medications
No Alternate Housing
No Emergency Heat
No Telephone
Lives Alone
Lives with Spouse
Lives with Spouse & Kids
Lives with Kids
Lives with Parents
Lives with Other Relative
Lives with Non-Relative
Lives in Group Home
Other: __________________
_______________________
(Check All That Apply)
Mobility
Memory
Vision
Hearing
Wheelchair
Respirator Dependent
Speech
Mental
Epilepsy
Anxiety/Depression
Cardiac History
Bedridden
Insulin Dependent
Incontinent of Bowel/Bladder
Special Diet: ______________
Oxygen Dependent_____LPM
Dialysis Dependent
Allergies: ________________
___________________________
Staying at Home
To Any Shelter
To Special Needs Shelter
Needs Evacuation Transport By:
Standard Vehicle
Ambulance Lift Gate
Other (Family, Hotel, Hospital)
Will Bring Caregiver to Shelter
Guide Dog
File of Life
Other: ______________________
SPECIAL AREAS: Lives in River Flood Zone
Lives in Hurricane Evacuation Zone
OTHER CONCERNS: Patient has Pets: Dog Cat
Other Pets: __________________
FROM:
I, the undersigned, give permission to release the information above to the Emergency Management Office for assistance with evacuation in the event of a
Natural Disaster/Emergency. I also give Emergency Service Providers, whether paid or volunteer, permission to enter my home in case of a declared
emergency.
Patient Signature: _____________________________ Date: _______________ Witness:__________________________
Agency Name: ____________________ Phone: _____________ Person Completing Form: ______________________
Additional Comments:
_______________________________________________________________________________________________
Please return form to: Walton County Emergency Management, 75 S. Davis Lane, DeFuniak Spgs., FL 32435
Fax: (850) 892-8366 Phone: (850) 892-8065
FOR USE BY AGENCY SUBMITTING ONLY: DELETION CODES (check one to remove from registration):
MOVED DISCHARGED DECEASED NO LONGER NEEDS ASSISTANCE
- 39 -
Appendix E:
Evacuation Route Maps
Evacuation Network
Evacuation Traffic Congestion – Low Tourist Occupancy
Evacuation Traffic Congestion – High Tourist Occupancy
- 40 -
Evacuation Network
- 41 -
Evacuation Traffic Congestion – Low Tourist Occupancy
- 42 -
Evacuation Traffic Congestion – High Tourist Occupancy
- 43 -
Appendix F:
Community Contact Information
- 44 -
Emergency and Government Telephone Numbers for Walton County
Emergency
American Red Cross 850-314-0316
Sheriff’s Office – Walton County 850-892-8186
EOC Manager 850-892-8065
Civil Defense 850-892-8066
S W Dispatch 850-267-2000
Florida Highway Patrol 850-459-6861
Fire Station – WaterColor 850-231-4763
National Hurricane Center – NOAA 202-482-3154
Hospital
Sacred Heart Hospital 850-278-3600
Walton County
Attorney’s Office 850-892-8110
Building & Permitting 850-892-8160
Code Enforcement 850-892-8160
Planning & Zoning Enforcement 850-892-8157
Department of Natural Resource Protection 850-892-3712
Development Management 850-892-8309
Engineering 850-951-0551
Land Use & Permit 850-267-1955
Post Office 850-267-2280
Property Appraiser 850-892-8123
St. Joe Operations
WaterColor Homeowner’s Association 850-231-1260
WaterSound Development 850-231-6480
WaterSound Homeowner’s Association 850-534-2061
Schools
Seaside Neighborhood School 850-231-0396
Van R Butler Elementary School 850-622-1102
South Walton High School 850-267-0429
Walton County Middle School (DeFuniak Springs)
Walton County High School (DeFuniak Springs)
- 45 -
Community Facilities
Beach Club 850-534-5042
WaterColor Inn 850-534-5000
WaterColor Recreation Services 850-534-5994
WaterColor Security 850-685-6362
General
Elder Affairs 800-963-5337
FEMA 800-621-3362
Florida Council of Churches 407-839-3454
National Flood Insurance program 800-427-2354
State Hurricane Hotline 800-342-3557
State Volunteer and Donations Hotline 800-354-3571
- 46 -
Appendix G:
Definitions and Terminology
- 47 -
Definitions and Terminology
The following weather related terms are in common usage and may prove
helpful in reading this plan.
Tropical Disturbance – This is the first stage of unstable weather that could
escalate. No strong wind, but there is rotary circulation.
Tropical Depression – Clearly defined low-pressure area with highest wind speed
of 38 miles per hour.
Tropical Storm – This is a low-pressure area with a defined rotary circulation.
Winds range from 39 to 73 miles per hour.
Tropical Storm Watch – An announcement that a tropical storm or one that
might be developing, poses a threat to an area, generally within 36 hours.
Tropical Storm Warning – An announcement that tropical storm conditions with
39 to 73 miles per hour sustained wind may hit a specific area within 24 hours.
Hurricane – Is a violent storm originating over tropical or subtropical waters with
sustained wind over 74 miles per hour. The winds, as in tropical depressions or
storms, blow around the center in a counterclockwise direction. The diameter of
these storms may range from 100 to 1,000 miles.
Storm Surge – Rapidly rising tide as a storm makes landfall. Salt water flooding
cripples communications, overwhelms storm sewers, and contaminates drinking
water supplies. Check the County Emergency Management Web Site to find the
surge area for your home.
Hurricane Watch – Is an announcement that a hurricane poses a threat to a
specific area, generally within 36 hours.
Hurricane Warning – An alert that a hurricane is expected to hit a specific area
within 24 hours. In instances where the course of a hurricane is erratic, this alert
may be issued only a few hours before hurricane conditions begin.
Tornado – The most violent of atmospheric phenomena, winds may whirl at up to
300 miles per hour. A spinning tornado may sound like the roaring of an airplane
or a locomotive. Tornadoes are usually short-lived and may be extraordinarily
destructive over a small area.
Waterspout – Is a tornado over water.
Tornado Watch – An announcement by the National Weather Service that a
severe weather condition exists that may spawn a tornado.
Tornado Warning – Means a tornado was sighted. The announcement generally
gives anticipated course.
top related