Miami-Dade County offers a free evacuation service for residents who, due to disabilities, medical conditions, or mobility issues, cannot evacuate independently during hurricanes or other emergencies. This service includes specialized transportation, shelter, and evacuation assistance.
The program, known as the Emergency & Evacuation Assistance Program (EEAP), is managed by the Miami-Dade Department of Emergency Management. While registration is open year-round, it's crucial to sign up before an evacuation order is issued. Authorities advise against waiting until a hurricane is imminent to apply for help.
Eligibility for the Program
Residents of Miami-Dade who live in private homes, apartments, or other private residences and need extra help to evacuate safely can apply. The program is designed for those who:
- Require specialized transportation to evacuate.
- Are homebound and unable to reach bus pickup points.
- Lack family or others to transport them.
- Have medical conditions preventing independent evacuation.
- Are bedridden or reliant on medical equipment that needs electricity.
- Need help with daily activities like walking, dressing, or taking medication.
- Require medical supervision during evacuation.
In May 2026, Miami-Dade reiterated the importance of early registration for those needing specialized care or vital medical equipment that depends on electricity.
Program Details and Restrictions
The EEAP is not limited to individuals living alone. It can be utilized by anyone meeting the assistance criteria, whether they live alone or with family. If multiple individuals in one household need evacuation help, each must submit an individual application.
However, residents of certain care facilities, such as assisted living facilities or nursing homes, do not qualify for EEAP. These facilities are required to have their own emergency and evacuation plans.
Types of Assistance Offered
Miami-Dade's EEAP offers various levels of assistance based on a resident's needs. Services include specialized transportation, emergency shelter, medical monitoring, and post-disaster check-ins. While the transportation and shelter are free, medical treatment at a hospital during evacuation may incur standard healthcare charges.
Residents unable to reach evacuation points due to reduced mobility can arrange for specialized transportation, detailing their requirements during application.
Application Process
The fastest way to register is through Miami-Dade's official online EEAP portal. It's advised to complete the application on a laptop or desktop as the system doesn't save incomplete forms. Once finished, applicants receive a temporary EEAP number for records.
Applications are available in English, Spanish, and Haitian Creole, with options for accessible formats upon request. Paper applications can be mailed to the Emergency & Evacuation Assistance Program at the Miami-Dade County Department of Emergency Management in Doral, FL.
Follow-Up After Registration
Submitting an application doesn't guarantee immediate acceptance. The Department of Emergency Management may contact applicants to verify information, and successful applicants will be notified of the assistance they can receive. Keeping personal, medical, and contact information up-to-date is the applicant's responsibility.
Importance of Early Registration
Registration is open throughout the year but closes before evacuation orders are issued. Waiting until the last moment may result in delayed assistance, as priority is given to those already registered.
The EEAP can be activated for various emergencies, not just hurricanes. This includes wildfires, hazardous material spills, prolonged power outages, and radiological emergencies.
Frequently Asked Questions about Miami-Dade's Emergency Assistance Program
Who is eligible for Miami-Dade's Emergency & Evacuation Assistance Program?
Residents of Miami-Dade who need specialized transportation, are homebound, lack transport, have medical conditions, are bedridden, or rely on essential medical equipment can apply.
What types of assistance does the program provide?
The program offers specialized transportation, emergency shelter, medical monitoring, and post-disaster check-ins, tailored to the resident's needs.
How can one register for the EEAP?
Registration can be completed online via the official EEAP portal or by submitting a paper application to the Miami-Dade County Department of Emergency Management.
What should residents do if they need to update their information?
Residents should contact the EEAP via the program's contact channels to update any changes in address, phone number, medical condition, or equipment needs.
Why is it important to register early?
Early registration ensures priority assistance and allows the county to effectively organize transportation, shelter, and assistance based on individual needs before an emergency strikes.