FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

As the threat of Tropical Storm Debby lingers, the American Red Cross will be opening the following shelters in North Central Florida:

Branford Elementary School – 26801 STATE RD 247, BRANFORD

Richardson Middle School – 646 SE Pennsylvania St, LAKE CITY

Suwannee Coliseum Complex – 1302 11th St SW, LIVE OAK

Veterans of Foreign War – 11404 County Rd 6 East, JASPER

Shelter Information:   What to Bring A shelter is a place of safety for those whose homes are unsafe. There is very little privacy in a Red Cross shelter, and the conditions are often crowded.  If you choose to go to a shelter, take supplies with you.

Special diet food

Over the Counter Medicine (examples: aspirin, antacids, decongestants)

Prescriptions in original bottles

Baby food, diapers, other baby supplies

Cards, games, books, snacks

One complete change of clothing

Toiletries/personal hygiene items

Bedding: blankets, sleeping bags, pillows, air mattresses

Identification

Important papers in waterproof container (examples: insurance, wills, financial records, Social Security cards, birth/marriage/death certificates, inventory of valuable household goods, etc.)
You may want to put these supplies in a water tight storage bin, duffel bag or backpack.

Note:  Before going to a shelter, secure your home and if you have time, eat something. For health and safety reasons: NO smoking, firearms, weapons or alcoholic beverages are allowed in Red Cross shelters.