Manatee County Urges Residents to Finalize Hurricane Preparedness Plans as COAD Mobilizes for Community Support
As hurricane season reaches its most active months, Manatee County Emergency Management is calling on all residents to complete their disaster preparedness plans using the 2025 Disaster Planning Guide. This comprehensive resource, developed in partnership with the Tampa Bay Regional Planning Council, provides residents with the tools to protect themselves, their families, pets, and property before, during, and after a storm.
A key partner in this countywide effort is Manatee County COAD—the Community Organizations Active in Disaster group. COAD brings together local nonprofits, faith-based organizations, government agencies, businesses, and volunteers to coordinate resources and response efforts during disasters. Their mission is to ensure that all segments of the community, especially vulnerable populations, receive the help they need during emergencies and throughout recovery. By leveraging local partnerships and collaborative planning, COAD plays a vital role in bridging gaps and avoiding duplication of services.
The Disaster Planning Guide includes critical checklists and planning tools to help residents:
Know Their Risk: Learn whether your home is in an evacuation level or FEMA flood zone. These are not the same. Visit mymanatee.org/evacuationlevels to find out.
Make a Plan: Whether sheltering in place or evacuating, make arrangements for family members, pets, and those with special needs. Residents of mobile homes, RVs, and boats are required to evacuate during any hurricane order.
Register for Assistance: Residents who may need transportation or medical support should register now with Manatee County Emergency Management at mymanatee.org/needs.
Build a Supply Kit: Stock at least 7 days of food, water, medications, pet supplies, and essentials. Don’t forget cash, chargers, important documents, and comfort items.
Secure Property and Insurance: Prepare your home against wind and flood damage, and review your homeowners or renters insurance. Flood insurance requires a 30-day waiting period.
Manatee County COAD also helps coordinate recovery assistance after storms—including shelter supplies, food distribution, crisis counseling, and volunteer management. Residents are encouraged to get involved with COAD or volunteer through local partner agencies to support neighbors in need during emergencies.
For real-time updates, text "ManateeReady" to 888-777 and follow the Manatee County Public Safety Department on social media.
Digital and print copies of the Disaster Planning Guide are available at tampabayprepares.org. The guide includes evacuation maps, pet safety tips, post-storm cleanup guidelines, and business continuity planning tools.
Preparedness saves lives. With support from COAD and a strong community network, Manatee County is working together to ensure no one is left behind when disaster strikes.
