Evacuation and Safety Information

Be Ready Before the Storm Hits

Volusia County is vulnerable to hurricanes, tropical storms, nor’easters, and other significant rain events. Preparing for evacuation and knowing how to stay safe before, during, and after a storm is critical. This page provides detailed guidance to help you protect your home, your loved ones, and yourself.

Understanding Evacuation Zones in Volusia County

Evacuation zones are not the same as flood zones. They are based on a property's vulnerability to storm surge, which is the abnormal rise of seawater caused by a storm.

• Volusia County uses zones A through E, with Zone A being the most at-risk.
• Evacuation orders are issued by zone, based on storm intensity and projected path.

Find Your Evacuation Zone
 

Note: Residents living in manufactured or mobile homes, low-lying areas, or flood-prone basins may be advised to evacuate regardless of zone.

Evacuation Routes and Transportation Planning

During an evacuation, residents should use designated primary and secondary evacuation routes and avoid flood-prone shortcuts.

Primary Evacuation Routes in Volusia County:

• Interstate 95 (North/South)
• Interstate 4 (Westbound toward Orlando)
• U.S. Highway 1
• State Roads 40, 44, and 472
• County Roads 415 and 11

Plan Ahead:

• Know the fastest route out based on your location.
• Identify two alternate routes in case your primary path is blocked.
• Have a full tank of gas well before the storm arrives—stations may close early or run out of fuel.

Shelter Options During an Emergency

Volusia County opens emergency shelters when necessary, based on the storm’s strength and timing. Once this information is projected, Volusia County will announced through multiple means the locations and types of various shelters.

Types of Shelters:

• General Population Shelters – Open to all residents; limited space, bring personal bedding, supplies, and ID.
• Pet-Friendly Shelters – Require leashes, crates (cats and small dogs), food, and medicine for pets. Pets are kept separate from human sleeping quarters, but around the clock access to the animals is available.
• Special Needs Shelters – For those who need electricity for medical devices or have mobility/health limitations.
  • Pre-register (recommended)

What to Bring to Any Shelter:

• Personal hygiene items
• Medications and prescriptions
• Government-issued identification for all adults (18+)
• Snacks or other non-perishable comfort foods
• Chargers for phones or other mobile devices
• If preferred, pillows and blankets
• Books, games, or comfort items for children

Evacuation Preparation Checklist

Start preparing when a storm enters the 5-day cone of uncertainty. Do not wait until the last minute.

72+ Hours Before Landfall:

• Confirm your evacuation zone.
• Stock up on food, water, medication, pet supplies, and fuel.
• Photograph and document your property and valuables. This will facilitate an insurance claim if your property does receive any damage from the storm.

48 Hours Before Landfall:

• Check emergency equipment and supplies.
• Fill bathtubs and containers with water for flushing and washing.
• Move vehicles to higher ground.

24 Hours Before Landfall (or at time of evacuation):

• Pack essentials in one or two portable bags.
• Lock up your home and secure outdoor items.
• Turn off propane tanks and, if recommended, utilities.
• Leave earlier if you are in a mandatory evacuation zone.

Additional Hurricane and Flood Safety Tips

Before the Storm:

• Stay tuned to local alerts (e.g., AlertVolusia, the Emergency Management App, NOAA Weather Radio, other local media sources).
• Designate a meeting point and emergency contact.
• Cover windows with shutters or plywood.
• Ensure portable electronic device chargers have ample power.
• Move valuables to higher ground or waterproof containers.

During the Storm:

• Shelter in a windowless interior room.
• Do not use candles—use flashlights or battery-powered lanterns.
• Stay inside.
• Monitor emergency updates by radio or phone.

After the Storm:

• Avoid standing water—may contain debris, sewage, wildlife, or hidden currents.
• Be alert for downed power lines and gas leaks.
• Do not drink tap if a boil water notice has been issued for your area.

Portable Generator Safety

Improper generator use is deadly. Each year, carbon monoxide from generators claims lives in Florida.

Key Safety Tips:

• Operate generators outdoors, at least 20 feet from windows, doors, or vents.
• Never run a generator inside a garage—even with the door open.
• Use proper extension cords rated for heavy outdoor use.
• Shut off and let cool before refueling.
• Install battery-operated carbon monoxide detectors in sleeping areas.
• Follow the guidance listed in the generator’s user manual.

Food and Water Safety Post-Storm

Without power or water pressure, food and water safety can become a serious risk.

Food Safety:

• If your fridge loses power for more than 4 hours, toss perishable foods.
• Frozen food that still contains ice crystals is safe to refreeze or cook.
• When in doubt, throw it out.

Water Safety:

• Boil water for 1 minute before drinking or cooking if under advisory.
• Use only clean, sealed containers for water storage.
• Do not use water from swimming pools or ponds for drinking or cooking.

Stormwater, Wastewater, and Septic Safety

Storm runoff may be contaminated with:

• Raw sewage
• Pesticides, oil, or gasoline
• Sharp debris or wildlife (e.g. snakes, alligators)

Precautions:

• Avoid all contact with floodwater, especially if you have cuts or open wounds.
• Clean and disinfect anything floodwater touches, including toys and tools.
• Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and clean water.
• Septic system backup? Don’t use sinks, toilets, or showers until inspected.
• Never open storm drains or manholes.