Hurricane Season Is Here: Be Prepared and Stay Safe

Hurricane season begins June 1 and continues through November 30. At Parrish Healthcare, your health and safety remain our top priorities before, during and after any storm. Taking a few simple steps now can help ensure you and your family are prepared should severe weather impact our North Brevard community. Please review these important medical preparedness reminders:

Have a 30-Day Supply of Medications
If you take prescription medications, we encourage you to maintain at least a 30-day supply whenever possible. Now is the time to make a medication plan by speaking with your physician, pharmacist or health insurance provider about options for obtaining extra medication(s). In some cases, purchasing an additional supply out of pocket may be an option. Please note that Florida law allows early prescription refills when the Governor issues an executive order declaring a state of emergency.

If You Receive Dialysis, Plan Ahead
Patients receiving dialysis should contact their dialysis center now to develop an emergency plan of care.

• Do not miss a scheduled treatment before severe weather arrives.
• Follow your physician-prescribed diet carefully.
• Review the emergency information provided by your care team, including contact information for the End Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) Network.

Only your physician can determine whether it is medically safe to miss treatments or whether hospitalization may be necessary during a storm. Please remember that Special Needs Shelters do not provide dialysis services, and some dialysis centers may close during a hurricane. After the storm, contact your dialysis center for instructions or seek short-term care at a hospital if your center remains closed.

Know Your Shelter Options
If an evacuation is ordered, shelters are available throughout Brevard County. These include:

• Primary Evacuation Shelters
• Special Needs Shelters
• Pet-Friendly Shelters

Please note that our hospital, Parrish Medical Center, is not a designated evacuation shelter and cannot accommodate evacuees. For information about shelter locations and services, please visit Brevard County Emergency Management's website: www.brevardfl.gov/EmergencyManagement

If You Depend on Oxygen, Make Arrangements Early
Individuals who rely on oxygen should prepare well in advance of a storm.

• Refill oxygen tanks before severe weather threatens.
• Keep at least a two-day supply of oxygen available.
• Determine whether you may qualify for a Special Needs Shelter based on your medical needs and shelter availability.

If you may need shelter assistance, contact the Brevard County Office of Emergency Management at 321-637-6670. Advance registration and planning are essential.

Take Time to Prepare Now
Preparing before a storm develops can make a significant difference during an emergency. For hurricane preparedness tips, emergency planning resources and other important information, visit the Brevard County Office of Emergency Management’s website.

Stay Connected with Parrish Healthcare
If a hurricane affects Parrish Healthcare operations or available services, we will provide updates through our website, social media channels and communication with our local media partners. We encourage everyone to prepare early, stay informed and stay safe throughout the 2026 hurricane season.