A vital part of every family or individual’s disaster plan, is where to shelter should a hurricane hit.
If your home is hurricane-proof and in a safe location, it is probably the best place to ride out a storm. Homes of friends and family, if well-constructed and in safe locations, are a good second choice.
However, for those with no alternative, there are 16 designated public shelters in Grand Cayman, and four in the Sister Islands.
Depending on the severity of the threat, Hazard Management Cayman Islands could open some or all of the shelters.
Familiarise yourself with shelters nearest to your home and the best routes to get there as in the event of an evacuation, you’ll need to get to the shelter as quickly as possible.
At least one shelter in each district doubles as an emergency medical centre, to provide care for people who are especially vulnerable and at risk during disaster situations. If you have a potential or existing medical issue, choose one of these shelters as medical staff will be based there. Admissions to emergency medical centres are limited to level of care needed and resources available.
For those with pets who are looking for a shelter, there are two pet-friendly shelters: John Gray High School and Clifton Hunter High School. Pets, like people, are allocated space on a first-come, first-served basis. Pets are not allowed to roam free.
Bring your own supplies, including water, non-perishable food items, medications and bedding, along with important documents.
This article originally appeared in Compass Media’s 2026 Emergency Guide.
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