Baton Rouge – Due to existing telecommunications problems that resulted from Hurricane Katrina, theLake Charles triage number has been closed. Citizens in that area who anticipate the special needs sheltering are encouraged to call the numbers for Alexandria, Baton Rouge or Shreveport. Citizens with special needs who are seeking shelter must call the telephone number in their area BEFORE attempting to access a shelter. These numbers are listed below.
Alexandria: 800-841-5778 Shreveport: 800-841-5776
Baton Rouge: 800-349-1372 Monroe: 866-280-7287
Houma/Thibodaux: 800-228-9409 Slidell/Hammond: 985-871-1300
Lafayette: 800-901-3210
New Orleans residents who anticipate the need for Special Needs Shelter services are asked to call theBaton Rouge number. Residents who anticipate the need for Special Needs Shelter services must call one of these numbers.
Special Needs Shelters are not designed for the general public or for nursing home patients. Nursing homes in Louisiana are required to have emergency evacuation plans in place that ensure the health and safety of their residents. In most instances, these plans allow for homes in affected areas to transport their patients to nursing homes in areas safe from the storm.
Health officials note that if individuals have health problems that require medical expertise and must evacuate, it is best for them to go with family members or caretakers to northern areas that are out of harm’s way. These shelters are staffed by Department of Health and Department of Social Services and will provide medical support services only. Because of limited staffing, those going to a Special Needs Shelter must have a caretaker to assist with ongoing support and they should bring all necessary supplies including sheets, blankets and pillows.
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