Emergency Preparedness

Official Guidance and Resources

Stay informed and prepared with the latest official guidance from local agencies. For instructions, alerts, evacuation orders, and shelter information, always refer to the resources provided by Pinellas County and the City of Oldsmar.

  • What is Alert Pinellas?

    Alert Pinellas is a notification system that keeps residents informed about emergencies and important community updates. Sign up to receive alerts directly to your phone or email.

  • How do I find my evacuation zone?

    Use the Know Your Zone tool to determine your evacuation zone in case of an emergency. This tool helps you understand your risk and plan accordingly.

  • What resources does the City of Oldsmar provide?

    The City of Oldsmar offers various emergency preparedness resources, including disaster preparedness guides and contact information for local emergency management.

  • How can I access the Ready Pinellas App?

    The Ready Pinellas App provides essential information and resources for emergency preparedness. Download it to stay updated on local emergencies and safety tips.

  • Where can I find state emergency management resources?

    The Florida Division of Emergency Management offers comprehensive resources for disaster preparedness, response, and recovery. Visit their website for more information.

Emergency Preparedness in Florida

Living in Florida means being prepared for a range of emergencies—from severe weather and hurricanes to power outages and flooding. A little planning now helps protect your household, supports our neighbors, and ensures everyone can respond calmly and effectively when it matters most.

  • Key Things to Consider When Preparing

    Create a Personal Emergency Plan: Every household should have a clear plan that includes: How you will communicate if family members are separated, Where you will go if evacuation is required, A designated out-of-area contact, Plans for pets, medications, and mobility or medical needs. Review your plan seasonally and make sure everyone in your household knows what to do.

  • Build an Emergency Supply Kit

    Prepare a kit that can support your household for at least 3–7 days, including:


    Water (one gallon per person per day)

    Non-perishable food

    Flashlights and extra batteries

    First-aid supplies and prescription medications

    Important documents (stored in waterproof containers)

    Chargers and backup power sources

    Pet food and supplies

    Keep your kit in an easy-to-access location and refresh items as needed.

  • Know Your Evacuation Zone

    If an evacuation is ordered, it’s important to know your zone ahead of time so you can act quickly and confidently. Pinellas County provides a simple tool to look up your evacuation zone by address.

  • Stay Informed


    Reliable, timely information is critical during an emergency. Residents are encouraged to:


    Monitor local weather and emergency updates

    Sign up for Alert Pinellas to receive urgent notifications by phone/text/email

    Follow instructions from county and city officials

    Alert Pinellas is the official emergency notification service used across Pinellas County and local municipalities, including Oldsmar.

  • Prepare Your Home

    Simple steps can reduce damage and improve safety:


    Secure outdoor furniture and loose items

    Know how to shut off utilities (only if advised)

    Review flood risk and insurance coverage

    Keep vehicles fueled during storm season

  • Community Gate Operations During Emergencies

    For safety and access reasons, East Lake Woodlands community entrance gates will be intentionally left open during declared emergencies. This is part of our emergency preparedness approach and is designed to:


    Help residents enter and exit the community quickly and safely

    Avoid delays for emergency responders

    Reduce congestion or access issues during evacuations or recovery efforts

    Please plan accordingly and always follow official guidance. When gates are open, drive slowly and remain alert, especially with increased traffic and pedestrian activity.