COVID-19 protocols remain in general population shelters

COVID-19 protocols within Monroe County general population shelters during hurricane season will continue, with the exception that mask wearing be optional and not mandatory. 

Overall, the Keys’ approach to storm season remains the same aside from facial coverings no longer being required when entering a shelter. In the event of a major hurricane (Category 3-5), all residents will be encouraged to evacuate to the mainland, as there are no shelters in the county for a hurricane rated at or above a Category 3. The Florida International University and Fuchs Pavilion locations will be open, as well as other facilities within Miami-Dade County (based on their availability on a per storm basis). 

Information will be made available via Monroe County official alerts, Monroe County website, social media sites, MCTV 76 & 99, local media and other local government agencies.  

According to Monroe County Emergency Management, anyone choosing to stay after an evacuation for a Cat 3 or higher storm has been ordered will not be able to get medical, fire rescue or law enforcement assistance until storm conditions subside, roads are passable and equipment is operable. 

Normal Keys shelters will be open for Category 1 and 2 hurricanes. Shelters are located at Key West High School, Sugarloaf School, Marathon High School and Coral Shores High School. 

“All COVID  protective measures will remain in place,” said Monroe County Emergency Management Director Shannon Weiner. “The only change is that masks will be ‘recommended’ and each person who comes to the shelter will receive a mask upon entry to the shelter.”

Regardless of where you shelter, if an evacuation is called in the Keys, it is time to go. A good rule of thumb: make all family decisions based on the needs of the most vulnerable member of your family. 

“It is always best to shelter with friends or family if you can do so safely,” Weiner said. “But the shelter is there for you if you need a safe place to stay.”

Jim McCarthy is one of the many Western New Yorkers who escaped the snow and frigid temperatures for warm living by the water. A former crime & court reporter and city editor for two Western New York newspapers, Jim has been honing his craft since he graduated from St. Bonaventure University in 2014. In his 4-plus years in the Keys, Jim has enjoyed connecting with the community. “One of my college professors would always preach to be curious,” he said. “Behind every person is a story that’s unique to them, and one worth telling. As writers, we are the ones who paint the pictures in the readers minds of the emotions, the struggles and the triumphs.” Jim is past president of the Key Largo Sunset Rotary Club, which is composed of energetic members who serve the community’s youth and older populations. Jim is a sports fanatic who loves to watch football, hockey, mixed martial arts and golf. He also enjoys time with family and his new baby boy, Lucas, who arrived Oct. 4, 2022.