Florida is well known as a top retirement destination for many boomers and seniors. However, the state does occasionally experience inclement weather situations. Florida’s hurricane season stretches from June 1st to November 30th, with its peak typically observed between mid-August to late-October.
If you're considering relocating to Southwest Florida for your retirement, it's crucial to be prepared. That’s why Moorings Park Communities adamantly prepares for hurricane season each year. The safety and security of residents is crucial, making their three Naples-based campuses some of the safest places for you or your loved one to be in Southwest Florida.
With the threat of severe weather conditions during hurricane season, thorough planning and proactive measures are essential to ensure the safety and well-being of residents. Moorings Park Communities reviews emergency preparedness year-round, and all three campuses review and update their respective Comprehensive Emergency Management Plans (CEMP) in the spring for submission to the Collier County Emergency Management Office. This update is followed by a mobilization drill involving all departments and specific outsourced contractors. At the end of each hurricane season, another administrative review of hurricane preparedness is completed to help identify best practices and opportunities for improvement.
Moorings Park Communities holds annual training for all partners, or Moorings Park Communities employees. Day-long mobilization drills for each department allow partners to experience and react to “real-world” scenarios, and partners are trained on specific roles and responsibilities in the event of a storm. This includes the mobilization of buses and other vehicles in the event of an ordered evacuation.
Partners are also required to take yearly safety and hurricane preparedness courses that guide and prepare individuals and departments on what to expect during inclement weather scenarios.
Moorings Park Communities holds annual hurricane training for all residents. This presentation addresses what to expect if a hurricane threatens Southwest Florida, protocols, and resident responsibilities should an evacuation be ordered. These sessions are essential for ensuring that residents are well-prepared and equipped to handle potential emergencies during hurricane season.
Through comprehensive training programs, residents receive valuable information on evacuation procedures, shelter locations, emergency communication protocols, and Florida hurricane safety tips. These training sessions also serve as an opportunity for residents to ask questions, address concerns, and familiarize themselves with community-specific emergency plans.
By participating in annual hurricane training, residents gain the knowledge and confidence to navigate challenging situations and stay safe during adverse weather conditions. Moorings Park Communities' commitment to proactive preparedness ensures that residents feel empowered and supported, fostering a sense of security and peace of mind throughout hurricane season.
Prior to hurricane season, phone numbers and emergency contact information are updated as a part of the residents’ personal Hurricane Plan. Residents are also provided detailed hurricane prep checklists regarding recommended items for their personal hurricane kit.
Partners at all three campuses are assigned to one of two teams during a hurricane. One team stays on campus during a storm and is responsible for community support prior to, during, and immediately after a hurricane hits the area. The other team offers relief after the storm has passed once roads are open for safe travel.
By delegating responsibilities in an organized and transparent matter, Moorings Park Communities ensures that partners are informed, prepared, and safe during and after a storm. This system also ensures that residents are with constant support.
Moorings Park Communities is equipped with a myriad of equipment and supplies that may be needed in the event of a hurricane. Dewatering and dehumidification machines, air blowers, and state-of-the-art emergency generators are just a few examples. Each campus is stocked with non-perishable food and drinking water to help sustain resident and staff needs during prolonged periods.
Having these supplies stocked and ready to be used during hurricane season ensures that resident needs and comfort are maintained during an emergency.
In order to keep residents informed, each campus appoints a Resident Information Officer who is responsible for resident communications prior to and immediately after the storm. Prior to the storm, residents can expect to receive communication through the individual campus websites, an emergency broadcast system, known as Informacast, and Town Hall-style meetings.
External communication with friends and families is facilitated through an Emergency Link on the Moorings Park Communities websites. This is updated frequently as conditions change.
In the event that Moorings Park Communities is mandated by government authority to evacuate, or if the CEO determines that an evacuation is in the best interests of residents and staff safety, the arrangement of travel and lodging will be made at a predetermined location with financial responsibilities handled by the organization. Transportation is provided via motor coach buses for independent and assisted living residents, while those who require higher levels of care are transported on smaller buses to an alternate skilled nursing facility with which Moorings Park Communities shares an agreement.
Moorings Park Communities’ comprehensive hurricane preparedness and evacuation plans ensure that all residents, including those in assisted living, skilled nursing, or memory care, receive full support and assistance. Specialized protocols are in place to address the unique needs of each resident, including provisions for medical care, medication management, mobility assistance, and emotional support. Dedicated partners are trained to provide personalized care and attention, ensuring every resident feels safe, comfortable, and well-supported before, during, and after the storm.
All Moorings Park Communities residences are outfitted with hurricane-rated glass and on-site generators ensure electricity to critical systems for residents in Independent Living. Assisted Living and Skilled Nursing buildings have large generators capable of supporting normal utilities, including air conditioning for up to 96 hours.
This type of forward-thinking keeps residents safe and comfortable before, during, and after a hurricane.
While partners immediately commence post-storm clean-up activities, Moorings Park Communities also maintains service agreements with companies to provide special support services such as water remediation, building repairs, fuel and food delivery, and landscaping clean-up.
This type of preparedness ensures that residents are safe and comfortable after a storm.
Every protocol and procedure that Moorings Park Communities follows during hurricane season ensures that resident stress is reduced during inclement weather. Rather than worry about gathering storm supplies or securing their properties alone, residents can rely on supportive and well-trained partners for assistance. This reduces the burden of preparation and offers a sense of security, promoting overall well-being and mental health.
From stocking essential supplies to reinforcing property infrastructure, Moorings Park Communities handles all aspects of hurricane preparedness for residents, allowing them to focus on their safety and comfort. During inclement weather scenarios, Moorings Park Communities aims to provide boomers and seniors with extensive support and assistance, a sense of security and assurance, and an environment where residents feel cared for and valued. This proactive approach minimizes stress during uncertain times. Ultimately, retirees can enjoy a higher quality of life knowing they are in capable hands that are well-equipped to face any challenges that may arise during hurricane season and beyond. To learn more, visit MooringsPark.org or schedule a private tour.