With mandatory evacuation orders issued for the barrier islands and other low-lying areas in Evacuation Zone A and Evacuation Zone B, Lee County will open a number of hurricane shelters at 9 a.m. today.

People who live in mobile homes and manufactured homes are also part of the evacuation order.

People who have friends or family with whom to stay outside the evacuation area are encouraged to make arrangements to do so, rather than going to a shelter, officials said.

Shelters will open at the following locations. Only the listed shelters are opening at this time. All shelters are pet-friendly:

• East Lee County High School

• South Fort Myers High School

United Way is preparing to open the emergency information line at 9 a.m. upon the opening of the emergency shelters. Residents with evacuation zone questions or shelter questions can call 2-1-1.

Remember you must bring your own personal items. More information is below. Or learn more about what to expect at shelter by watching this video:

www.youtube.com/watch?v=9KFC7hW2epY

Officials provided evacuation and shelter updates this morning from the Emergency Operations Center. To watch the press conference, visit www.leegov.com/storm, scroll down to “social media and news updates” and click on “video.”

Also Tuesday, Lee County moved to a full activation from a partial activation.

Residents are asked to monitor local media and meteorologists’ reports and to check www.leegov.com for Hurricane Ian updates. Follow @Lee County Government on Facebook,

• Residents in evacuation areas are asked to refrain from putting out garbage, recycling or yard waste before leaving the area. For those who are not in evacuation areas, regular pickup will occur today as scheduled. On Wednesday, services will be suspended countywide and reassessed as the emergency proceeds.

• If you’re heading to one of Lee County’s shelters, you need to bring a Go Kit. Include a 3-day supply of food, water and snacks. You’ll also need a pillow and sleeping bag; folding chair; medications and eyeglasses; disinfectant wipes; toilet paper; a 3-day supply of clothing; a sleep mask and earplugs; hygiene items; games or books; a phone charger or battery bank; and instant coffee or teabags. Lee County has a limited amount of shelters and space within the shelters.

• Pets are allowed in all Lee County shelters, but you’re responsible for bringing what they need. Pack your pet a Go Kit. Make sure there’s a collar, leash, ID tags, and health records. Have a photo of you with your pet in case you become separated. Bring a crate or pet carrier. Include a week’s worth of water; food and treats; clean-up supplies including waste bags for dogs and litter box with litter for cats; remember any medicines your pet needs. You can find out more about preparation at leegov.com/hurricane.

Source: Lee County Government

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