More information about preparing for Tropical Storm Erika

The forecast for Tropical Storm Erika is uncertain, but residents are urged to be prepared for the possibility of tropical storm force winds and potential flooding.

Sandbags will be available to residents of unincorporated Pinellas County on Saturday, Aug. 29, and Sunday, Aug. 30, from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. at these locations:
•  John Chesnut Sr. Park, 2200 East Lake Road in Palm Harbor
•  John S. Taylor Park, 1100 Eighth Ave. SW in Largo
•  Lealman Park, corner of 39th St. N. and 54th Ave. N.

Information on the additional availability of sandbags will be updated as the storm approaches.

Pinellas County will provide bags and shovels. Residents are responsible for filling their own bags.

Sandbags will be limited to 20 per person. Proof of Pinellas County residence or business location is required. Residents who live in a city or town in Pinellas County should contact that municipality for the availability of sandbags in their area.

For more information on sandbags, visit www.pinellascounty.org/emergency/sandbags.htm.

Pinellas County plans to partially activate the Emergency Operations Center on Sunday, Aug. 30, from 1 to 6 p.m. The Citizens Information Center will open on Sunday at 1 p.m., residents will be able to call (727) 464-4333 with any questions related to Tropical Storm Erika.

Preparedness checklist for residents:
•  Residents should review their plans and make necessary preparations.
•  Mobile home park residents should pay special attention to their preparedness efforts.
•  Special needs residents should be sure to register with their local fire department for special needs shelter and/or transportation.
•  Sign up for Community Notification Service online or call 1-866-484-3264.
•  If necessary, shelters will open and will be announced at that time.
•  Price gouging law is in effect due to the Governor’s declaration of a State of Emergency. Residents who suspect price gouging can report it to Pinellas County Justice and Consumer Services at 727-464-6200.
•  The Governor’s State of Emergency means that prescriptions can be refilled and covered by insurance without the usual waiting time.
•  Information can be found in the Pinellas County All-Hazards guide, available at libraries, governmental offices and community centers, and online.
•  Find information including checklists, phone numbers and comprehensive information about storm preparedness online.

Pinellas County Emergency Operations urges all citizens to continue to monitor the media for information about Tropical Storm Erika.

Follow Pinellas County government on Twitter and Facebook and Pinellas County Emergency Management on Twitter, updates from the county on social media will use the hashtag #PinellasErika.